Brahim Diaz is lighting up the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, scoring in three consecutive matches and matching a feat unseen in the competition since 1976.
As Morocco’s number 10, he has become the team’s main creative force and emotional leader on home soil.
His spectacular form with the Atlas Lions contrasts sharply with his status at Real Madrid, where he has played fewer than 500 minutes this season under Xabi Alonso, an even lower total than under Carlo Ancelotti.
Yet his future looks set to continue at the Bernabeu, with a contract extension reportedly agreed until 2030, including a salary increase. Former Madrid figure Pedja Mijatovic backed this choice, arguing that “playing 500 minutes at Real Madrid is better than playing 2,000 minutes elsewhere.”
In Spain, his exploits with Morocco have reignited regret and debate. Pundits on the show “El Larguero” questioned why coach Luis de la Fuente did not do more to keep him with La Roja, some suggesting he paid for choosing AFCON over the Spanish Super Cup.
Meanwhile, Diaz now stands as one of the tournament’s standout stars and a key figure for Morocco ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Real Madrid playmaker has scored three goals in the tournament.
