Morocco coach Ouahbi backs Brahim Díaz despite limited Real Madrid playing time

Morocco coach Mohamed Ouahbi is determined to help Brahim Díaz regain his confidence and match fitness as the forward continues to struggle for regular playing time at Real Madrid.

The 26-year-old has made just two starts and accumulated 242 minutes since the beginning of the season, raising concerns about his lack of involvement at club level ahead of Morocco’s upcoming matches against Niger on November 13 and 17.

Despite his difficult situation in Madrid, Ouahbi remains confident in the Moroccan international and believes the national team can provide him with an opportunity to regain his rhythm.

Speaking at a press conference, the Atlas Lions coach acknowledged that both he and the player would like to see him feature more regularly for the Spanish giants.

“Whether it’s us or him, he wants to play more. He’s in one of the best clubs in the world, the competition is very, very high,” he said.

However, Ouahbi insisted that Díaz’s limited opportunities at club level had not raised concerns about his quality or ability to contribute to the national team.

The Moroccan coach believes the forward remains committed to representing his country and is prepared to give his best whenever he gets the opportunity.

“We’re not really worried about his level because, when he’s with the national team, he’s very happy to be there and wants to give his all. We’re going to encourage him. We’re going to make sure he plays some great matches with us and that he can return to Real Madrid and get even more playing time.”

Morocco’s approach is to give Díaz the opportunity to play an important role with the national team, allowing him to build confidence and regain his competitive rhythm.

Ouahbi, however, was careful not to interfere with decisions made by Real Madrid manager José Mourinho, stressing that the club’s technical staff must determine how best to manage their players.

“I can’t get involved in the coach’s choices. Everyone has their own solutions to find,” he added.

Brahim Díaz retains important role despite criticism

Despite his lack of regular playing time at Real Madrid, Díaz is expected to remain an important figure in Morocco’s attacking plans.

However, the preferential treatment he continues to receive from the national team has not gone without criticism. Former Moroccan international Mustapha Hadji is among those who have questioned the place given to the forward despite his limited involvement at club level.

Mourinho, meanwhile, has previously made it clear that he has no complaints about Díaz’s attitude or professionalism.

The Portuguese manager has praised the player’s commitment during training and his performances, explaining that the level of competition at Real Madrid has made it difficult for him to secure more opportunities.

Díaz remains determined to establish himself at the Spanish club despite the challenges he currently faces.

For now, Morocco are prepared to give him the opportunities that have been difficult to find in Madrid, offering him playing time, confidence and greater responsibility.

The forward, who initially resisted calls to represent Morocco for several years, has since become an important part of the national team setup.

With the upcoming fixtures against Niger approaching, Ouahbi will hope that regular involvement with the Atlas Lions can help Díaz rediscover his best form and strengthen his position when he returns to Real Madrid.