Isco may be a Spanish football icon in his own right – a four-time Champions League winner with Real Madrid and now a creative force at a resurgent Real Betis – but even the most gifted players have their inspirations.

In a recent interview with SoccerBible, the midfielder was asked to name the players he considers true creative kindred spirits – and in doing so, he revealed the four stars he holds as footballing idols.

“Riquelme, Ronaldinho, Zidane, Iniesta,” Isco said. “They all played from another place. With pause, with imagination, with that class that can't be taught.”

While Zidane, Iniesta and Ronaldinho are regularly praised as all-time greats, it's the inclusion of Juan Román Riquelme that may raise eyebrows – but not among football purists.

Though often overlooked in mainstream debates, Riquelme is revered by many within the game as one of Argentina’s most gifted-ever players. Even the great Lionel Messi has spoken frequently of Riquelme as a major influence on his career.

Best known for his legendary spells at Boca Juniors and as a mainstay for Argentina, Riquelme also left a lasting impression in La Liga during his time with Barcelona and Villarreal. His unique rhythm, vision and elegance clearly left a mark on a young Isco.

They say game recognises game – and that’s certainly true here.

As for who Isco admires in the modern game, it seems he’s less convinced by today’s footballing trends.

"In the present... I still have to see who does it with that freedom," he said. "Because today people run a lot, but think less. And for me, the head is still the best engine."

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