He may be one of the world's finest footballers, but Gareth Bale's struggles with injury this season are reportedly causing several of his Real Madrid teammates to campaign for him to be benched for the Champions League final.
Bale is expected to be fit in time for the showdown with Juventus on 3rd June, having missed the last few weeks with a muscle injury.
Being that this year's final is in Bale's hometown of Cardiff, the Welsh captain is obviously desperate to start against Juve, yet many of his teammates would prefer to see Isco start ahead of the Welshman.
Isco has been in fine form as of late and was especially impressive during both legs of the semi-final with city rivals Atletico. Many members of the Real team believe the Spanish midfielder brings more balance to Zinedine Zidane's side and, judging by recent performances, it's hard to argue.
According to Diario Gol, Cristiano Ronaldo is leading the queue of Los Blancos stars who would prefer to see Isco in Zidane's starting XI for the final against the Bianconeri in two and a half weeks time.
The Spanish midfielder has been in sensational form, recently. Image: PA
Along with Ronaldo, club captain Sergio Ramos also favours his countryman over Bale, as do Marcelo, Pepe, Fabio Coentrao and Casemiro.
Bale does have some support though, with Toni Kroos and fellow ex-Spurs player Luka Modric fighting his corner ahead of Real's second consecutive Champions League final.
Bale may have to watch the Champions League final from the subs bench in his hometown. Image: PA
The Welshman has lifted the trophy twice since completing his then world record breaking £86m move from Tottenham in 2013. It was Bale who gave Real the lead during extra-time of the 2014 final against Atletico Madrid and he also scored a penalty in last year's victorious shoot-out at the San Siro.
But who would you start against Juventus if you were Zinedine Zidane? Bale or Isco?
Have your say in the comments section, below.
(H/T 90 Mins)
Topics: Football, gareth bale, Real Madrid