Real Madrid: 5 players who must rise to the occasion at Cadiz
CM Antonio Blanco
The last spot goes to a debutant on Matchday 33 against Getafe, Antonio Blanco. The promising midfield prospect impressed in about 30 minutes off the bench, recording a team-high three tackles and an interception as he added some needed midfield stability to help Real ensure that they at least would not lose the match to a struggling La Liga side.
Blanco probably won’t start against Cadiz, but, in all honesty, I’d rather see him get his first start than either Marco Asensio or Rodrygo Goes play in midfield. The 20-year-old showed enough in his debut off the bench this weekend to give me confidence that he can be a passable presence on Matchday 31.
Then again, with Casemiro back in the fold, a more attacking duo around him in midfield could work. So that may be something Zidane is considering with Toni Kroos and Luka Modric both out of the match entirely.
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Blanco, even if he does not start, is a strong candidate to make an impact off the bench again, especially if Real need that defensive solidity in midfield. In Blanco, Real Madrid have a young man who can become a future standout for this club. His number may be called in a tough match at Cadiz, who want to make a statement to the big club leaving for the European Super League.