Report: Isco to start against Barcelona

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has reportedly decided to start with Spanish midfielder Isco in tonight's Copa del Rey final against Barcelona at the Mestalla.

Due to Cristiano Ronaldo's absence from the XI, Angel di Maria is expected to move into a three-pronged attack alongside Gareth Bale and Karim Benzema.

It had initially been thought that Asier Illarramendi would come into the midfield for protection, but according to Marca, Isco has been given the nod and will start alongside Luka Modric and Xabi Alonso.

Los Blancos have won the Copa del Rey 18 times, but were beaten in the final last season by rivals and current La Liga leaders Atletico Madrid.