Isco Alarcón has been called up by Real Betis coach Manuel Pellegrini for Thursday’s Europa League fixture against Braga. This marks his first squad inclusion since November 27th, when he sustained an injury during a match against Utrecht. His return comes as Betis prepares to face Braga, following a 1-1 draw in the first leg of their tie.
The 33-year-old winger and attacking midfielder, who previously played for Real Madrid from 2013 to 2022 before joining Betis in 2023, has faced a challenging period with injuries throughout the season. He initially suffered a fibula fracture during a pre-season friendly in August 2025. Just four days after his return, he re-injured himself in a challenge with Amrabat, keeping him sidelined for the majority of the season until his current comeback.
Despite his recent injury struggles, Isco was recognized as the best player of the Conference League last year, even in defeat during the final against Chelsea. Betis aims to reach another European final this season, this time at a higher level, but must first overcome Braga in Seville.
Isco, a former Spain international who featured in the 2018 World Cup, was notably excluded from the squads for the 2022 World Cup and Euro 2020. He suffered an injury prior to Euro 2024 but made a comeback under Luis de la Fuente for the Nations League finals in 2025. His chances of being called up for the upcoming 2026 World Cup are considered highly unlikely.