I am staying, says Real Madrid’s Isco

Midfielder put an end to speculations regarding his future with Los Blancos during La Liga celebrations

LONDON: Real Madrid's magical midfielder Isco has finally killed speculations about his future at the club after guiding Los Blancos to a first La Liga title in five years.

The former Malaga man has been a key performer for Zinedine Zidane’s side in the later stages of the season, and made sure that the team will not miss Welsh winger Gareth Bale, who is still recovering from a calf injury he sustained during Champions League quarter-final first-leg against Bayern Munich.

"Do not worry the fans of Real Madrid. I will stay," Isco told reporters during Madrid’s La Liga celebrations. "Yes, [the situation] was complicated at first, but I have remained strong psychologically and I have received the support of everyone."

The 25-year-old notched a total of 10 league goals in 30 appearances, just 18 of them starts and has also found special place in the hearts of Santiago Bernabeu’s faithful.

"I'll be forever grateful for the affection they [Madrid supporters]'ve shown me,” said Isco. “It's a very sweet moment [winning the league] and you have to enjoy it."

Although Bale is expected to be fit for the Champions League final, Zidane may opt to stick with his new formation instead of accommodating the Welshman in Cardiff by reverting to the 4-3-3.

Spanish newspaper Marca conducted a poll on May 12 in which only 28% of 33,000 voters preferred Bale to start on June 3 over Isco.