Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti has claimed that Asier Illarramendi is improving with each passing match.
The Spaniard arrived at the Bernabeu from Real Sociedad last summer, but has largely struggled to make his mark in Madrid.
It was strongly speculated that the 24-year-old would leave the Spanish side this month, but Ancelotti has revealed that he was always keen to keep the midfielder.
"Last year he had some problems adapting. At first he wasn't so comfortable. When the team improved, so did he," Ancelotti told reporters.
Arsenal, Real Sociedad and Athletic Bilbao were all linked with loan moves for the Spaniard.
