Jordi Alba: 'Isco one of the best players in the world'

Barcelona full-back Jordi Alba has branded Real Madrid midfielder Isco 'one of the best players in the world'.

Despite being rivals at club level, Alba and Isco are close friends following their time together at Valencia, while they are both a key part of Spain's plans ahead of the 2018 World Cup.

Alba has admitted that he 'does not like seeing' Isco play well for Real Madrid, but the defender has paid tribute to the 25-year-old's qualities.

"Isco? He's always played the same way, but now he's at an incredible level. He's one of the best in the world. I don't mind admitting it, even if he's an eternal rival of mine and I don't like seeing him at that level for his club," Alba told reporters.

Alba and Isco are both expected to be involved when Spain face Costa Rica in Saturday night's international friendly.