Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz has pulled out of the Morocco national team ahead of their upcoming friendlies against Tunisia and Benin due to injury concerns.
Diaz was initially named in Walid Regragui’s squad for the two matches, set to be held at Fez Stadium. However, the Atlas Lions’ medical staff confirmed that the 24-year-old arrived at camp still nursing an injury sustained during Real Madrid’s recent La Liga clash with Real Sociedad.
In a television interview, the team doctor revealed that Diaz continues to experience discomfort, prompting head coach Regragui to exclude him from the match against Tunisia to prevent aggravating the issue.
Diaz’s absence opens the door for several newcomers in the squad to make their mark. Among the top candidates to step in is PSV Eindhoven’s Ismail Saibari, who has impressed for both club and country throughout the season.
Morocco will face Tunisia on Friday, followed by a clash with Benin on Monday. These fixtures form part of their preparations for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).