Ismael Blanco Argentine footballer, striker Date of Birth: 19.01.1983 Country: Argentina

1. The Rise of Luciano Gabriel Blandi
2. Loan Spells and Argentine Success
3. Return to Colón and Loan to AEK
4. Striking Success in Greece

The Rise of Luciano Gabriel Blandi

Luciano Gabriel Blandi is an Argentine professional footballer who currently plays as a striker for Atlético Tucumán. His journey began in 2002 when he joined Colón de Santa Fe. As a key player in the starting lineup, his progress was unfortunately hampered by a knee injury.

Loan Spells and Argentine Success

In 2005, Blandi embarked on a brief loan spell at Paraguayan club Libertad, where he participated in the Copa Libertadores and scored two crucial goals. Upon his return, he was immediately loaned out again, this time to second-division side Olimpo.

Over the course of a season and a half, Blandi made an extraordinary impact, netting 33 goals. His prolificacy helped Olimpo secure promotion to the top flight and earned him the top scorer award in both the 2006 Apertura (18 goals) and 2007 Clausura (11 goals) tournaments.

Return to Colón and Loan to AEK

In July 2007, Blandi returned to Colón but was quickly sent on loan to AEK Athens. Under the terms of the deal, AEK paid a yearly rent of €450,000 and had the option to purchase his transfer for €850,000.

Striking Success in Greece

At AEK, Blandi formed a formidable attacking partnership with the legendary Rivaldo. In the 2007/08 season, he emerged as the top scorer in the Greek Super League with an impressive 19 goals. AEK subsequently exercised their option to make his move permanent.