Real Madrid: Five players who can seize their moment in the Copa del Rey
By Avi Nagar
Antonio Blanco
The next player on our list is another up-and-coming Castilla player, Antonio Blanco. The 20-year old is now a more familiar name among the current crop of youngsters. His first call-up came under Zidane. During last season’s Matchday 33 of La Liga, Blanco made his debut against Getafe. Blanco later played two full matches against Cadiz and Espanyol. In both these matches, he operated in a double pivot alongside Casemiro.
From what we saw of him last season, it seemed that Antonio Blanco would get more opportunities this season. It hasn’t been the case thus far. Ancelotti has barely used the Spaniard. The Italian veteran coach has heavily relied on Kroos, Casemiro, and Modric. Even Camavinga and Valverde, who seem to be ahead of Blanco in the pecking order, have had a shortage of minutes at times.
It’s fair to expect for Blanco to get some playing time in the Copa del Rey. He could either play as a lone deep-lying playmaker or in a double pivot. If he impresses the Italian boss, he may have a part to play in the second half of this season. With the matches coming thick and fast, rotations will be needed, and Blanco can force his way into them if he performs well.