Real Madrid boss Santiago Solari hinted that his relationship with playmaker Isco is heading in a positive direction, calling the Spaniard “a great player”.

There was speculation that the relationship between the pair is strained. Isco has been replaced by Marco Asensio in the starting line-up and has started just one game under Solari’s reign.

Ahead of Los Blancos’ clash against Villarreal, the Madrid boss praised the midfielder and mentioned that he brings a lot of joy.

“Isco is a great player, he has given us a lot of joy and will continue to do so,” Solari said.

“Villarreal are always a difficult opponent, they will be hoping to turn around their fortunes, they have a new Coach and are always one of the league’s most difficult trips.

“This is the same team who excelled last season, they have a different style and system but they have a lot of quality.

“We have to give a lot of energy to generate a strong performance, to get back into our rhythm and show good transition between defence and attack.

“It is a difficult time to play, returning after the holidays, we only had a few days to train but the circumstances are not ideal.

“We start the New Year with eyes on three fronts, we are going into optimism in the league, in the Copa and in the Champions League.”