Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has sought to draw a line under the debate surrounding Brahim Díaz’s international allegiance, calling for respect for player choice as the forward continues to shine for Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations.
In comments to Spanish newspaper AS, De la Fuente stressed that decisions on national representation remain a personal matter, warning against turning such choices into prolonged controversy.
His intervention comes as Díaz cements his growing influence with the Atlas Lions, delivering decisive performances at the continental tournament.
“We must respect players’ choices. Brahim Díaz decided to play for Morocco, and that is a personal decision that deserves respect,” De la Fuente said, reiterating a stance he has maintained throughout his tenure.
The Spain coach has consistently argued that dual-nationality players should be free to choose the environment where they feel most aligned, both personally and professionally.
The remarks are significant given the scrutiny that followed Díaz’s decision to commit his international future to Morocco rather than Spain.
While the debate lingered in some quarters, De la Fuente’s comments signal an attempt to refocus attention on football matters rather than nationality disputes.
On the pitch, Díaz has responded emphatically. The attacker has scored three goals at the Africa Cup of Nations, finding the net in every match he has played. His return places him joint top of the tournament’s scoring charts alongside Morocco teammate Ayoub El Kaabi and Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez, underlining his immediate impact in red and green.
Díaz’s performances have reinforced Morocco’s attacking depth and added a new dimension to their forward play, drawing on experience gained across Europe’s top leagues. His ability to influence games in key moments has quickly endeared him to supporters and strengthened his standing within the squad.
