Casablanca -Morocco’s international Brahim Diaz believes Real Madrid is heading in the right direction after scoring the decisive goal in the Spanish giants’ 1-0 pre-season victory over Deportivo La Coruña in the Teresa Herrera Trophy.
The 27-year-old found the net just before halftime at Riazor, securing Madrid’s second win of the summer as José Mourinho’s side continues preparations for the 2026-27 campaign.
After the match, Diaz said that the result was less important than the work being done ahead of the new season.
“It was a good match, but it’s still a pre-season game,” Diaz said. “We played away at Deportivo, and it was an important test to continue improving our physical condition and keep working hard. I’m happy, and I think it’s going to be a very good year.”
The Moroccan also highlighted the positive atmosphere within the squad under Mourinho, expressing confidence about both his own form and the direction the team is taking.
“I feel very good. I’m working better than ever, and I’m very happy with Mourinho, the coaching staff, and my teammates. This is Real Madrid, and we want to keep making history.”
Diaz’s goal came in a Madrid side that featured several summer signings. At the same time, key players including Jude Bellingham, Kylian Mbappé, Marc Cucurella, Yan Diomande, and Ibrahima Konaté remained in Madrid to continue individual training.
After the match, Mourinho commended his team’s discipline in what he described as a demanding test against newly promoted Deportivo.
“It was a serious game against a team that’s back in La Liga,” Mourinho said.
“These are the kinds of matches we’ll have during the season, difficult away games where you may only win 1-0. The team is growing step by step.”
Diaz also revealed one of the tactical adjustments Mourinho asked him to make during the game.
Asked about operating from the right flank, the Moroccan laughed before replying:
“You’ll have to ask him,” he joked. “Today he wanted me to move inside more and help in building the attacks.”
Real Madrid will conclude their pre-season preparations against Schalke before opening their LaLiga campaign away to Espanyol later this month.
