Isco undergoes successful ankle surgery in Madrid as injury woes continue
Betis star Isco Alarcón has undergone arthroscopic surgery on his right ankle after conservative treatment failed to resolve the injury sustained against Utrecht.
Isco Alarcón’s nightmare season continues as the Betis maestro went under the knife in Madrid to address the troublesome right ankle injury that has limited him to just 39 minutes of action this campaign.
The Surgery
The former Real Madrid man underwent an arthroscopic procedure on his right ankle cartilage, following an injury sustained on November 27th during a Europa League clash against Utrecht at La Cartuja. In what can only be described as a proper stroke of bad luck, the injury came from an accidental challenge by his own teammate Sofyan Amrabat just minutes into the match.
Initially, Betis medical staff had attempted a conservative approach, treating the ankle with growth factor injections. However, with progress moving slower than a Sunday driver on the North Circular, the decision was made to expedite his recovery through surgical intervention.
Recovery Timeline
The operation, while described as “minor,” is expected to keep the Spanish international sidelined for at least another month. This continues what has been an absolute mare of a season for Isco, who has barely featured for Manuel Pellegrini’s side:
- Just 9 minutes against Utrecht in Europa League (before the injury)
- A mere 30 minutes versus Girona in La Liga
Impact on Betis
The loss of Isco continues to be a significant blow for Los Verdiblancos, who have sorely missed his creative spark in midfield. The 32-year-old playmaker had been showing glimpses of his old magic last season after revitalizing his career at Betis following a difficult spell at Sevilla.
The club released a statement confirming the procedure was successful but noted that “the recovery period will depend on his evolution” - typical doctor’s speak for “your guess is as good as mine, mate.”
For Betis supporters, they’ll be hoping their diamond geezer can return to full fitness sooner rather than later, as the team continues to battle on multiple fronts this season.