Antonio Blanco (footballer)

Antonio Blanco Conde (born 23 July 2000) is a Spanish professional footballer who plays mainly as a defensive midfielder for La Liga club Alavés, and the Spain national team. Blanco was included in The Guardian's "Next Generation 2017".

Real Madrid
Blanco made his La Liga debut for Real Madrid on 18 April 2021, in a goalless draw against Getafe, coming on as a substitute. He was handed his first start three days later, in a 3–0 win over Cádiz.

Loans to Cádiz and Alavés
In August 2022, he moved to Cádiz on a season-long loan deal. Blanco was recalled in January 2023 and joined Segunda División club Alavés until the end of the season.

Alavés
On 25 July 2023, Blanco signed for Alavés permanently until June 2027.

International career
Due to the isolation of some national team players following the positive COVID-19 test of Sergio Busquets, Spain's under-21 squad were called up for the international friendly against Lithuania on 8 June 2021. Blanco made his senior debut in the match as Spain won 4–0.

Honours
Real Madrid
 * La Liga: 2021–22
 * UEFA Champions League: 2021–22

Spain U17
 * UEFA European Under-17 Championship: 2017
 * FIFA Under-17 World Cup runner-up: 2017

Spain U19
 * UEFA European Under-19 Championship: 2019

Spain U21
 * UEFA European Under-21 Championship runner-up: 2023

Individual
 * UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament: 2019
 * UEFA European Under-21 Championship Team of the Tournament: 2023