Brahim Diaz returned to Valdebebas at the start of last week to work under new Real Madrid Mourinho.
He came back after an impressive World Cup, where he provided four assists in five matches, finishing as the tournament’s second-highest assist provider and one of Morocco’s standout performers.
As has been the case every summer in recent years, there were once again rumours and question marks over Brahim’s future at the Santiago Bernabeu.
But, unfazed by the speculation, as soon as the World Cup ended, the 27-year-old got to work to ensure he arrived at pre-season in the best possible physical condition.
And it has clearly paid off, with the versatile star making a strong case for a prominent role under Mourinho, reports AS.
Eager to impress. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
A strong return to action
In the first friendly in which he was available, against Ferencvaros in Hungary, Brahim started on the right wing.
Just four days later, impressed by the player’s physical condition, Mourinho handed him another start at against Deportivo La Coruna. Brahim responded with a superb goal that secured Real Madrid’s tenth Teresa Herrera trophy.
His return has therefore been about more than simply getting minutes. The forward has immediately shown Mourinho that he is ready to compete for an important role.
Versatility an asset in the face of strong competition
As was the case in the previous seasons, the Moroccan international again he faces significant competition for playing time.
The arrivals of Yan Diomande and Bernardo Silva, together with the development of players such as Arda Guler and Endrick, who can also operate on the right, mean Brahim will have to fight hard for his opportunities.
Unfazed by competition. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Last season, he played 42 matches and accumulated 1,666 minutes. He is eager to get more playing time, and he intends to prove that to Mourinho.
A player Mourinho values
The Portuguese coach sees Brahim as a particularly valuable member of his squad. His versatility and willingness to work fit Mourinho’s footballing ideas extremely well.
He can use Brahim on either wing, or as an attacking midfielder. The latter role is one he already occupied during the periods when Jude Bellingham was recovering from his shoulder injury.
That tactical flexibility could be crucial in a squad packed with attacking options.
Brahim, for his part, is not backing down. Despite the new arrivals and increased competition, his approach remains unchanged. His performance against Deportivo was another reminder that he intends to take every opportunity Mourinho gives him.