Brahim Abdelkader Diaz has officially committed to representing the Atlas Lions on the international stage. The highly-regarded Real Madrid midfielder, previously courted by Spain, has opted to join the Moroccan national team, marking a pivotal moment in his career. His inclusion in the latest squad sees him poised to make his debut against Angola in a friendly match scheduled for Friday evening.
Ahead of Diaz’s anticipated debut, Morocco’s head coach, Walid Regragui, addressed the media during a press conference on Thursday evening.
Regragui offered insights into Diaz’s arrival, shedding light on the meticulous process that led to the 24-year-old’s decision to don the Moroccan jersey.
Setting the tone from the outset, Regragui emphasized the importance of acknowledging Diaz’s full name, Brahim Abdelkader Diaz, as a mark of respect.
“It’s Brahim, Brahim not Diaz. Brahim Abdelkader. And if necessary, you put Diaz after. So Brahim Abdelkader Diaz,” he asserted, correcting a journalist who referred to the player solely by his surname.
Delving into Diaz’s integration into the team, Regragui acknowledged the challenges the midfielder may face initially. “Brahim gives me several options.
It won’t be easy for him tomorrow, you’ll have to be patient. He has to get used to it, get his bearings,” he remarked, tempering expectations while expressing optimism about Diaz’s potential contributions.
Regragui also provided insight into the extensive efforts made to secure Diaz’s allegiance to Morocco.
“We worked for a year and a half on the Diaz case. It wasn’t easy and the timing worked in our favor,” he revealed, highlighting the strategic approach taken by the coaching staff.
Praising Diaz’s decision to represent Morocco over Spain, Regragui commended the player’s commitment to the national team despite alternative offers.
The coach’s remarks underscored the significance of Diaz’s inclusion in the Moroccan squad and the anticipation surrounding his debut.
As Morocco prepares to face Angola, Diaz’s presence adds a new dimension to the team, signaling a promising chapter for Moroccan football on the international stage.
