Ibrahim Diaz. Photo Credit: cafonline.com
Brahim Diaz arrived quietly with the Moroccan national team, but during AFCON 2025, the Real Madrid midfielder
has written his own story and captured the hearts of Moroccan fans. Decisive, elegant, and fully committed,
Diaz has emerged as one of the standout players of the tournament.
In the streets of Rabat, he may not yet overshadow global star Achraf Hakimi, but his popularity has grown
rapidly. Jerseys bearing his name are increasingly visible, and his performances speak louder than words.
With four goals in four matches, Brahim Diaz has been instrumental for the Lions of the Atlas and currently
stands alongside Ademola Lookman as one of the competition’s top performers.
A Complicated Beginning with Moroccan Supporters
Despite his current success, Brahim Diaz’s relationship with Moroccan supporters was not always smooth.
Courted for years by the Royal Moroccan Football Federation (FRMF), Diaz initially represented Spain at youth level. His first and only senior appearance for La Roja came in 2021 during a friendly match against Lithuania, after which he faded from Spain’s plans.
Throughout this period, the FRMF maintained constant dialogue with the player. While Diaz was open to
representing his father’s country, he harbored concerns about integration, language barriers, and adapting to
a culture he barely knew. To ease these doubts, Moroccan officials accompanied him closely, highlighting the
diverse and multilingual nature of the squad and encouraging him to discover the country firsthand.
Personal Commitment and a Response on the Pitch
Walid Regragui played a key role in the process, making multiple trips to Italy and Madrid to meet the player.
At the same time, Brahim Diaz visited Morocco several times to explore the country and its football
infrastructure. After extensive discussions with his family and the national team staff, he made his choice: Morocco.
Determined to integrate fully, Diaz even began learning Darija, the Moroccan dialect, a gesture that deeply
impressed the federation and fans alike. His commitment was further demonstrated when, despite being injured
during the international break, he chose to spend his holidays in Agadir to support the national team during
friendly matches.
A Definitive Choice for Morocco
Upon learning of Diaz’s decision, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente attempted a last-minute call-up, but the Real
Madrid midfielder declined, honoring the promise he had made to Morocco. In March 2024, Brahim Diaz officially
made his debut for the Moroccan national team.
Today, at AFCON 2025, his performances have erased all doubts. Through talent, humility, and total dedication,
Brahim Diaz has not only conquered Moroccan fans but has also become a symbol of the new generation of Lions of the Atlas.
