Real Madrid are set to play Isco ahead of Gareth Bale in the forthcoming Champions League, according to reports in Spain.

The reports say the players want Isco who has been impressive of late to get the nod ahead of the Welsh star.

Bale is a doubt for the game as his fitness issues persists. He has had an underwhelming season which contrasts greatly to the past season. As a whole, since arriving in Spain he has not made the expected mark. Just when he seemed to be dragging himself from the shadows of Cristiano Ronaldo, various issues have popped up.

Bale would likely be on the bench in Europe’s biggest stage. The fact that the match would be played in his hometown Cardiff makes it harder. He is not expected to play in the La Liga this season. There are numerous reports linking him with a move from Santiago Bernabeu.

Manchester United are believed to be leading the race for the signature of the 27-year old. He only agreed to a new deal last October but the former Spurs player might return to the Premier League this summer.

Coach Zinedine Zidane says Bales is training “using the indoor facilities” and that he gets better by the day. He is racing time to be fit for the game against the Italian side. Zidane confirmed that he was not back in training with the rest of the players yet. He has missed 27 games this season and the players would not be happy if he gets to start ahead of Isco in the June final.

Isco offers more balance to the team. He scored a crucial goal in the second leg of the semi-final against Atletico Madrid. Bale might get to come on for the sake of the fans but Isco would need to do the work in the crucial game.