Mata defends Isco: Talent always stands out and he has plenty of it Real Madrid Also spoke about De Gea

Manchester United midfielder Juan Mata has praised the skills of Real Madrid's midfielder Isco, who has yet to start a LaLiga Santander game under Santiago Solari.

Although the former Malaga player follows the majority of Los Blancos' games from the bench, his compatriot has sent him a message of support.

"I appreciate Isco, as I met him at Valencia and I saw all the talent he had," Mata said in an interview with Radio MARCA.

"The only thing you can do in situations like this is to continue working, to not lose confidence in yourself and to try to take advantage of opportunities when you have them.

"In the end, talent always stands out and he has plenty of it.

"I send a very strong hug from here and I'm sure that, in the end, things will improve."

Mata went on to also back his Manchester United colleague David de Gea, who was criticised after his performances in the 2018 World Cup in Russia.

"What I understand is that he is one of the best goalkeepers in the world," he noted.

"My support for De Gea is unconditional at all times, as I know his desire to continue playing with Spain is intact and I think Luis Enrique thinks the same."