Brahim Diaz’s hopes of finishing the season on a high took a sharp turn on Saturday as the Real Madrid midfielder was forced off with an apparent injury during the final match of the La Liga campaign, casting doubt over his availability for the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup.
The 25-year-old Morocco international, who was making his return to the starting line-up, limped off the pitch in the 54th minute after pulling up during a challenge.
Clearly in discomfort, Diaz signalled to the bench immediately, prompting manager Carlo Ancelotti to send on Vinícius Júnior in his place.
The incident unfolded at a time when Diaz appeared to be regaining full fitness, having only recently returned from a muscle issue.
His previous injury, an adductor strain, had sidelined him for two matches. On Saturday, he looked to be easing back into rhythm before another physical setback cut his afternoon short.
As he made his way off the pitch, Diaz was seen clutching his left thigh — the same area affected by his earlier adductor injury. While Real Madrid has yet to confirm the nature of the issue, the recurrence raises concerns of a potential relapse.
Club medical staff are expected to conduct further assessments to determine the extent of the injury in the coming days.
The timing of the injury could not be worse for the midfielder, with the Club World Cup on the horizon.
The global tournament, set to begin on June 15, is now in question for Diaz, whose presence had been anticipated as part of Madrid’s midfield rotation.
His absence would be a significant blow to both the player and the club. Diaz has been a valuable contributor this season, registering six goals and seven assists across 22 starts.
Though not always in the starting XI, he has provided consistent impact and depth in midfield, particularly when called upon during congested fixture periods.
Having rejoined Real Madrid last summer following a loan spell at AC Milan, Diaz has worked to establish himself within the squad’s hierarchy.
This latest setback is a frustrating interruption to what had been shaping into a strong individual campaign.
For Diaz personally, the injury marks another chapter in a season punctuated by both opportunity and adversity.
Being handed a starting role in the season finale was a nod to his performances and determination throughout the year. But the joy of that moment was quickly eclipsed by the return of injury concerns.
Real Madrid, who have already wrapped up the La Liga title, are now focusing on their next objectives — including a strong showing in the expanded Club World Cup. Whether Diaz will play a role in that journey remains uncertain, pending results from upcoming medical evaluations.
Until then, both club and country will be keeping a close eye on the midfielder’s recovery timeline.
For Morocco, the potential absence of one of their key creative figures would also be a concern ahead of a busy international calendar.
As Real Madrid await clarity on Diaz’s fitness, the midfielder faces an anxious period on the sidelines, hoping the damage is not as severe as feared — and that he will still have a part to play on the world stage this summer.
