Having avoided a 10th booking of the season during Real Betis’ victory over Valencia at the Mestalla last weekend, Isco Alarcon will be available for Sunday’s El Gran Derbi showdown against former club Sevilla at the Benito Villamarin.

It will be Isco’s first derby as a Betis player at home, having joined Los Verdiblancos as a free agent last summer. There’s sure to be plenty of eyes on him, especially from those in Sevilla colours, as he will be perceived to be the dangerman.

One of those tasked with stopping Isco will be Sergio Ramos, his former teammate from his Real Madrid days. The recently-turned 32-year-old admitted that he is excited for the match-up, as he told Betis’ official media channels (via Relevo).

“There was many years playing and winning together, there’s a special affection between us. When we’re on the pitch, I’m sure he’ll give me one stick or another.”

Isco has been absent from Real Betis’ first two training sessions of the week, as he is nursing some discomfort. However, he revealed that there is no danger of him missing El Gran Derbi this weekend.

“I’m working to get to 100%.”

The post Isco excited for duel with ex-Real Madrid teammate during El Gran Derbi – “There’s a special affection” appeared first on Football España.

More must-reads:

TODAY'S BEST
Dolphins safety appears to take a shot at former DC
Ryan Leaf goes off on top NFL insider, accuses him of being a fraud
Report: TNT is still fighting to save its NBA rights
Lightning re-acquire defenseman from Predators
Steelers star DT blasts reporter's 'bold face lie'
Deadline for LeBron James' contract decision revealed
Jets HC Robert Saleh shares significant update on Aaron Rodgers' health
Steelers add another veteran to running back room
Charvarius Ward names positive 49ers can take from Super Bowl loss
Dolphins' Tua Tagovailoa reportedly makes physical change amid contract talks
Do Oilers need more from Connor McDavid to get to Stanley Cup Final?
All-Rookie teams show gems available all over draft
The NBA has not witnessed this much parity in 50 years
Knicks expected to be 'aggressive' in upgrading their roster
Drew Bledsoe offers advice for Patriots rookie QB Drake Maye
2024 AFC revenge games: Brothers, 'Stefon Diggs Bowl' to take center stage
2024 NFC revenge games: Which game should Cowboys, others have circled?
How All-Star Race victory could turn Joey Logano's season around
Xander Schauffele's triumph could open the floodgates for his career
Anderson Silva, Chael Sonnen will finish off their trilogy in a boxing ring