Rabat – Morocco international Brahim Diaz has joined the Atlas Lions’ September camp while carrying persistent muscular discomfort, which has raised questions over his availability ahead of the team’s opening 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Gabon.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, the Real Madrid forward has been dealing with significant muscle pain for several matches.
The issue has also contributed to his reduced playing time with the Spanish giants in recent weeks.
Diaz remains with Morocco’s squad for the current international window, but his physical condition is being closely monitored.
Le360 reported that he was present with the national team but did not complete Tuesday’s training session due to the muscle issue.
The concerns come after a strong performance for Real Madrid against Inter Milan in the Champions League.
Diaz assisted Kylian Mbappe for the opening goal and produced another standout attacking move that created an opportunity for Jude Bellingham.
However, he has seen limited involvement since that match, featuring for just 22 minutes across Real Madrid’s following three games, according to AS.
He was unused against Rayo Vallecano and Atletico Madrid and made a brief appearance against Elche.
Despite the discomfort, Diaz has continued to make himself available to Real Madrid rather than stepping away to recover.
AS reported that the muscular problems have persisted for several matches and have affected his day-to-day physical condition.
The situation now presents a concern for Morocco head coach Mohamed Ouahbi, who included Diaz in his 29-man squad for the September international window.
Morocco are scheduled to host Gabon on Friday, September 25, at the Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium in Rabat in their opening AFCON 2027 qualifier.
The Atlas Lions will then face Lesotho in Bloemfontein on September 29 before meeting Ghana in a friendly in Tangier on October 4.
With Diaz’s fitness still uncertain, Morocco’s medical and coaching staff will have to assess his condition ahead of the team’s first competitive fixture of the international window.
