Isco says Ronaldo's departure has not affected Real Madrid

Real Madrid midfielder Isco Alarcon said on Thursday that they have not been affected by the departure of Portuguese superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, who joined Juventus during the summer transfer window.

During a press conference ahead of Spain's upcoming national clashes in the UEFA Nations League, Isco said Real Madrid forwards Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema have improved after Ronaldo's departure, reports Efe.

"Obviously, Cris (Ronaldo) is an extraordinary player who secured the team 50 goals per season, but we know how soccer is, if we win people will say that we do not miss him and, if we lose, then we are missing him," Isco told the press.

Isco noted the improvement he and his colleagues have made under new head coach Julen Lopetegui.

"Now, we play very well as a team. There are players that last year did not score as many goals as they are (scoring now). For now we do not miss him (Ronaldo), but we have just started (the season). I wish we continue the same way and I (hope) it goes well with him in Juve," Isco said.

--IANS

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