Morocco star Brahim Diaz faces uncertain future at Real Madrid

Despite signing a contract extension and putting in consistent performances last season, Brahim Diaz’s role at Real Madrid appears increasingly uncertain under new head coach Xabi Alonso.

According to Spanish daily AS, Diaz—who logged over 100 minutes during the Club World Cup—has seen his influence wane as Alonso reshapes the squad.

The 25-year-old featured only intermittently during the tournament, with younger talents like Arda Güler receiving more prominent roles.

Alonso’s arrival has ushered in a new era, with emerging players such as Güler, Gonzalo Garcia, and Dean Huijsen quickly adapting to his tactical demands.

Their rise has pushed Diaz further down the pecking order, a stark contrast to his steady presence under former manager Carlo Ancelotti.

Diaz, who hails from Málaga, first joined Los Blancos in 2019 but spent three productive seasons on loan at AC Milan before returning to Madrid in 2023.

Under Ancelotti, he was often a reliable option off the bench, deputising for the likes of Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham.

Last season, Diaz made 56 appearances across all competitions, contributing six goals and seven assists. However, his impact appeared to wane, with his average minutes per game dropping from 45.5 to 40.8—despite playing more matches than the previous season.

The competition for midfield and attacking roles has only intensified. Güler has cemented his place in Alonso’s plans, even taking the reins in midfield during the Club World Cup.

The club’s recent €63.2 million acquisition of Argentine prodigy Franco Mastantuono has further complicated Diaz’s chances of regular involvement.

Still, Diaz remains determined to fight for his place. His fortunes could shift if Brazilian winger Rodrygo—reportedly a target for Bayern Munich, Arsenal, and Liverpool—makes a move this summer.

For now, Brahim Diaz finds himself on the fringes of an evolving Real Madrid setup, hoping to seize any opportunity that might come his way.