Brahim Diaz is facing mounting uncertainty over his role at the club, despite solid appearances last season and a recent contract renewal.
According to Spanish newspaper AS, Diaz, who played more than 100 minutes in the Club World Cup, has seen his prominence diminish under new head coach Xabi Alonso. The 25-year-old featured sporadically in the competition, with Turkish youngster Arda Güler and other emerging names handed more responsibility.
Alonso’s early reign has seen the rise of several promising players, including Gonzalo Garcia, Dean Huijsen and Güler, all of whom have adapted quickly to the Basque manager’s system. As a result, Diaz has struggled to secure meaningful minutes, despite having been a regular under previous boss Carlo Ancelotti.
The Malaga-born attacking midfielder joined Real Madrid in 2019 but spent three seasons on loan at AC Milan, where he impressed before returning in 2023. Under Ancelotti, he became a dependable substitute and often filled in for Rodrygo and Jude Bellingham.
Last season, Diaz made 56 appearances in all competitions, scoring six goals and providing seven assists, slightly down from 12 goals and nine assists the previous year. However, despite the increased number of matches, his average playing time dropped from 45.5 to 40.8 minutes per game.
Competition for places has intensified. Arda Güler has become a key figure in Alonso’s plans, even taking charge in midfield during the Club World Cup. Meanwhile, the arrival of Argentine winger Franco Mastantuono—signed for €63.2m—adds another layer of difficulty for Diaz, as Real Madrid look to the future.
Nevertheless, Diaz appears determined to fight for his spot and could benefit from the potential departure of Brazilian winger Rodrygo, who is being courted by Bayern Munich, Arsenal and Liverpool.
Diaz’s best hope may lie in holding on and capitalising should an opening arise. For now, he remains on the fringes, battling to stay relevant in an increasingly crowded squad.
