Brahim Diaz gives Jose Mourinho selection dilemma after Real Madrid return

Brahim Diaz has strengthened his case for a regular starting role at Real Madrid after returning from the World Cup in outstanding physical condition and scoring the goal that secured the Teresa Herrera Trophy.

The Morocco international resumed training at Real Madrid’s Valdebebas base at the start of last week, following an impressive tournament in which he was one of his country’s leading performers. According to Spanish newspaper AS, Diaz created four goals in five World Cup appearances, finishing second in the competition’s rankings for assists.

The number 21 began training immediately after the World Cup ended, with the aim of being in peak condition by the start of the club’s pre-season preparations. His work has already produced a clear reward.

Diaz started on the right wing in the first friendly match for which he was available. Four days later, Jose Mourinho selected him in the starting line-up again for the match at Riazor, having been impressed by the player’s fitness and sharpness.

The goal from Diaz proved decisive as Real Madrid beat their opponents to win the Teresa Herrera Trophy for a 10th time. His performance offered a timely response to the intense competition for attacking positions in Mourinho’s squad and gave the Portugal manager another reason to consider him for a prominent role.

Diaz is entering his fifth season with Real Madrid facing a particularly demanding battle for opportunities. The arrivals of new signings Ousmane Diomande and Bernardo Silva have increased the competition, while Arda Guler and Endrick are also developing into options on the right wing.

That leaves Diaz needing to work hard to demonstrate that he deserves a regular place. His challenge is not only to compete with a growing group of talented players, but also to show the tactical flexibility required to fit into different attacking roles.

Last season, Diaz played 1,666 minutes across 42 matches. He wants to increase that total this term and is attempting to convince Mourinho that he can make a greater contribution over the course of the campaign.

Mourinho regards Diaz as a valuable member of the squad because his qualities align closely with the manager’s footballing ideas. His ability to adapt tactically and his willingness to work for the team are both attributes Mourinho places great importance on.

The manager can use Diaz as an attacking winger on either flank or in a central position. He can also operate as a playmaker, a role he occupied for periods during the months when Jude Bellingham was recovering from a shoulder injury.

Despite the arrival of further competition, Diaz has shown no intention of giving up his fight for a place. The Andalusian player is determined to respond by working harder, increasing his effort and making the most of every opportunity offered to him.

His display at La Coruna, where his goal delivered the Teresa Herrera Trophy to Real Madrid, was the latest evidence that he intends to turn those opportunities into a serious challenge for a starting position.