Real Madrid’s midfielder Brahim Diaz has made the decision to represent Morocco at the international level, opting for the nation of his paternal heritage after feeling overlooked by the Spanish national team.
Born in Malaga to Spanish parents, Diaz harbored aspirations of donning the jersey of La Roja throughout his career. However, feeling neglected by Spain’s national team manager Luis de la Fuente and growing weary of awaiting a call-up, Diaz has chosen to switch his allegiance to Morocco, as reported by Marca’s Juan Castro.
Efforts from the Moroccan Football Federation’s president, Fouzi Lekjaa, and the Moroccan minister delegate for the budget played a significant role in persuading Diaz to make the switch. Despite representing Spain at youth levels, Diaz felt a lack of affinity from La Roja and its management.
Spain’s loss will be Morocco’s gain, as they acquire the talents of Diaz, a promising 24-year-old player who has showcased glimpses of brilliance, particularly with his recent standout performance against RB Leipzig in the Champions League. Morocco adds Diaz to their roster of skillful attacking players, enhancing their squad depth.
With eligibility through his paternal grandfather, Brahim Diaz Abdelkader, who was born in Morocco, Diaz is set to make his international debut for Morocco against Angola on March 22, pending his inclusion in the Atlas Lions’ squad. Following the international break, Diaz will return to Real Madrid, where they continue their pursuit of the La Liga title, currently leading by seven points after a victory against Celta Vigo.