This season at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a>, the spotlight often shines on the most prominent stars, such as&nbsp;Kylian Mbappe,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/jude-bellingham/">Jude Bellingham</a>, and&nbsp;Vinicius.&nbsp;However, there is another player at&nbsp;the club who is quietly emerging as a potential game-changer for the team. In fact, this player has been identified by manager&nbsp;Carlo Ancelotti&nbsp;as a crucial asset for the club’s attacking strategy moving forward, particularly as they look ahead to&nbsp;2025.



Real Madrid’s attacking lineup has been formidable this season, frequently featuring the likes of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/vinicius-junior/">Vinicius</a>, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Mbappe</a>, and&nbsp;Rodrygo. However, injuries and tactical substitutions have opened the door for other players to step up. Among them is a forward who has been making the most of his opportunities, playing in&nbsp;17 matches&nbsp;across all competitions, scoring&nbsp;two goals&nbsp;and providing&nbsp;three assists. Despite starting only&nbsp;eight games, his contributions have not gone unnoticed.



According to a report from&nbsp;Mundo Deportivo, <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlo-ancelotti/">Ancelotti</a> sees this talent as an “all-rounder” capable of excelling in various attacking roles. This recognition could lead to increased playing time in the coming year, as the forward is committed to proving his worth and maintaining the manager’s trust.



<h2>Introducing Brahim Diaz</h2>



The player in question is none other than&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/brahim-diaz/">Brahim Diaz</a>. The Moroccan international has been a key figure in Ancelotti’s plans, even if he is not always a guaranteed starter. His ability to adapt and perform under pressure has earned him the trust of the manager, making him a valuable asset in the squad.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241226_WST_545803_brahim-diaz-1200x675_6a6393c6.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="brahim diaz" class="wp-image-545812" srcset="https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-300x169.jpg 300w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-768x432.jpg 768w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-740x416.jpg 740w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-490x275.jpg 490w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz-250x140.jpg 250w, https://images.futbolsites.net/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/12/26173240/brahim-diaz.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Real Madrid president&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/florentino-perez/">Florentino Perez</a>&nbsp;recently met with Ancelotti to discuss the future of Brahim Diaz, and both are reportedly big fans of the Moroccan forward. According to&nbsp;Diego Mengual of Defensa Central, Perez believes that Brahim is “good enough to start for any club in the world,” indicating the high regard in which he is held within the club.



Brahim’s journey at Real Madrid has not been without challenges, especially given the fierce competition for places in the starting lineup. However, he has consistently demonstrated his capability to rise to the occasion. His recent performances have attracted attention from major European clubs, with PSG being particularly interested in acquiring his services. Despite this, Brahim has remained steadfast in his commitment to Real Madrid, stating that his dream is to continue winning titles with the club.



<h2>Commitment to Real Madrid</h2>



Interestingly, the Moroccan recently attracted interest from&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/paris-saint-germain/">Paris Saint-Germain</a>. However, he chose to remain with Real Madrid, a club that boasts an impressive&nbsp;15 Champions League titles. As reported by&nbsp;Relevo, he turned down PSG’s advances, demonstrating his loyalty and ambition to succeed with Los Blancos. Since joining the club in&nbsp;2019, he has expressed a desire to stay until his contract expires in&nbsp;2027.



Despite not being the most high-profile player in the squad, he has shown his ability to perform when called upon. A recent standout moment came during a match against&nbsp;Sevilla, where he scored a crucial goal, helping Real Madrid secure a&nbsp;4-2 victory. His performance in that game highlighted his potential and importance to the team, even amidst the presence of superstars.

Not Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, or Vinicius: This Real Madrid talent is Carlo Ancelotti's secret weapon for 2025

Not Kylian Mbappe, Jude Bellingham, or Vinicius: This Real Madrid talent is Carlo Ancelotti's secret weapon for 2025 - World Soccer Talk

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<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/real-madrid">Real Madrid</a>‘s injury woes continue to mount following their recent defeat to Liverpool at Anfield, adding to an already growing list of sidelined players. In a worrying development,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/kylian-mbappe/">Kylian Mbappe</a>,&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/jude-bellingham/">Jude Bellingham</a>, and&nbsp;Brahim Diaz&nbsp;have joined the ranks of the injured, raising serious concerns about their availability for the crucial upcoming fixtures.



Real Madrid has been plagued by injuries this season, and the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/problems-for-real-madrids-midfield-camavinga-out-for-a-month-after-champions-league-injury/">latest setback involves&nbsp;Eduardo Camavinga</a>, who picked up a hamstring issue during the midweek Champions League loss. However, the spotlight has shifted to Mbappe, Bellingham, and Brahim, all of whom are now facing uncertainty regarding their fitness.



According to&nbsp;Diario AS, these three key players are experiencing varying degrees of discomfort and will undergo&nbsp;medical examinations within the next 24 hours. Their potential absence would be a severe blow to Real Madrid’s aspirations, particularly with&nbsp;Getafe&nbsp;and&nbsp;Athletic Club&nbsp;matches looming, as well as critical fixtures in the&nbsp;Champions League&nbsp;and the&nbsp;Intercontinental Cup Final.



<h2>Mounting injury crisis</h2>



Kylian Mbappe’s fitness is of paramount importance. Since his arrival, he has been a cornerstone of Madrid’s attack. Losing him, especially when the team is already without&nbsp;Rodrygo&nbsp;and&nbsp;Vinicius, would significantly diminish their offensive firepower. His ability to create chances and finish clinically makes him indispensable, and any prolonged absence could hamper Real Madrid’s campaign in both&nbsp;La Liga&nbsp;and Europe.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="675" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20241128_WST_541835_Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-1200x675_21590d4b.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=675" alt="mbappe bellingham" class="wp-image-541855" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-1200x675.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-300x169.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-768x432.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-740x416.jpg 740w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-490x275.jpg 490w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2-250x140.jpg 250w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/11/Gloom-at-Real-Madrid-with-Kylian-Mbappe-and-Jude-Bellingham-sidelined-How-serious-are-their-injuries-2.jpg 1920w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Another pressing concern is&nbsp;Jude Bellingham, who has been in sensational form. His dynamic midfield performances have been vital in controlling games and providing crucial goals. Ancelotti must weigh the risks carefully—rushing Bellingham back too soon could aggravate his condition, potentially sidelining him for longer. As Madrid prepares for a grueling December schedule, preserving Bellingham’s fitness will be crucial.



Though often used as a substitute,&nbsp;Brahim Diaz&nbsp;has played a vital role as a reliable option off the bench. His absence, combined with the other injuries, could leave Carlo Ancelotti scrambling for creative solutions in the final third. With limited offensive depth, Brahim’s availability could be the difference between securing a win or enduring a frustrating draw.



<h2>Tactical challenges for Ancelotti: Rest or risk?</h2>



Real Madrid’s injury situation puts&nbsp;<a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/tag/carlo-ancelotti">Carlo Ancelotti</a>&nbsp;in a precarious position. Not only does he have to navigate the immediate challenge of Getafe, but he also faces a packed schedule, including a tough Champions League clash against&nbsp;Atalanta. Additionally,&nbsp;Aurelien Tchouameni&nbsp;remains sidelined, further thinning the squad’s defensive midfield options.



Ancelotti may be forced to dip into the&nbsp;Castilla squad, promoting young talents to fill the gaps. While this could provide valuable experience for Madrid’s future stars, it places immense pressure on an inexperienced group to perform under high-stakes conditions.



Given the upcoming fixtures, Ancelotti might choose to rest his key players against Getafe, ensuring they are at full strength for more critical matches. Resting Mbappe, Bellingham, and Brahim for the&nbsp;Athletic Club&nbsp;encounter or the&nbsp;Champions League&nbsp;match could be a prudent move.

Gloom at Real Madrid with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham sidelined: How serious are their injuries?

Gloom at Real Madrid with Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham sidelined: How serious are their injuries? - World Soccer Talk

In a significant decision affecting both club and international play, Real Madrid has decided not to release another star for the 2024 Olympic Games in Paris. This decision comes amidst a packed summer schedule for the club. Numerous players are already participating in major tournaments such as <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-european-championship-tv-schedule/">Euro 2024</a> and the <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/copa-america-tv-schedule/">Copa America</a>.



Florentino Perez first <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/kylian-mbappe/euro-or-olympics-madrid-set-to-dash-mbappes-summer-plans/">used his veto power</a> to prevent Kylian Mbappe, the latest Galactico acquisition, from representing France. “For the Olympics, my club has a position which is very clear. So, that means I think I will not participate in the Olympics. That is how it is,” Mbappe revealed.



The 2024 <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/olympics-soccer-schedule-and-tv-guide/">Olympic soccer competition</a> will run from July 26 to August 9, overlapping with Madrid’s critical preseason period. This timing is particularly problematic given that many of the club’s players are involved in Euro 2024 and Copa America, which also conclude in mid-July. The club’s priority is to ensure that their players are adequately prepared for the start of the new season. However, this includes the UEFA European Super Cup final against Atalanta on August 14 in Warsaw.



According to reports from <a href="https://www.sport.es/es/noticias/real-madrid/real-madrid-veta-jjoo-brahim-103995714" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Sport</a>, now Brahim Diaz has also been informed of Real Madrid’s stance. The club views Diaz as a crucial player for their preseason preparations, especially given the expected late returns of many first-team regulars due to their international commitments.



<h2>Morocco not giving up</h2>



From the Moroccan Football Federation’s standpoint, the inclusion of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/reals-brahim-diaz-chooses-morocco-over-spain-national-team/">Brahim Diaz</a> in their <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/how-to-watch-the-olympics-on-us-tv/">Olympic squad</a> is of significant importance. The Atlas Lions, who made history by reaching the 2022 World Cup semi-finals, are keen to continue their upward trajectory by performing well in the Olympics. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/morocco-national-team-tv-schedule/">Moroccan</a> team has not qualified for the Olympics since 2012. Nonetheless, they are likely a potential medal contender, and Diaz’s presence would undoubtedly boost their chances.



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240620_WST_512636_Brahim-Diaz-Real-Madrid-1200x670_d819f764.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-512659" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Brahim-Diaz-Real-Madrid-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Brahim-Diaz-Real-Madrid-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Brahim-Diaz-Real-Madrid-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/06/Brahim-Diaz-Real-Madrid.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



Fouzi Lekjaa, president of the Moroccan Football Federation, has expressed a strong desire to see Diaz in the Olympic squad, acknowledging his importance to the team. Despite Real Madrid’s current stance, Morocco will continue negotiations, <a href="https://www.moroccoworldnews.com/2024/06/363335/moroccos-brahim-diaz-could-miss-paris-2024-olympics-amid-real-madrids-decision" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">Morocco World News</a> says. They hope to reach an agreement that allows the 24-year-old to participate in the Olympics while balancing his club commitments.



<h2>How can Olympics decision affect Brahim Diaz and Real Madrid?</h2>



Brahim Diaz has <a href="https://as.com/futbol/primera/el-madrid-tambien-bloquea-la-presencia-de-brahim-en-los-juegos-olimpicos-de-paris-n/" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">previously shown a keen interest</a> in representing Morocco at the Olympics. However, he has reportedly accepted the club’s decision without insisting on his release. This highlights the professional relationship between the player and his club, where the latter’s priorities take precedence. The club deems the midfielder’s role in the preseason as vital, especially as the Whites aim to start the new season strongly amidst a packed schedule.



Los Blancos’ decision is not unprecedented; the club has also refused to release Kylian Mbappe for the Olympics, indicating a consistent approach to managing player commitments during a crucial period. This decision aligns with the club’s broader strategy to maintain player fitness and readiness for the competitive season ahead.



The decision also underscores a broader trend in soccer where clubs prioritize their preseason preparations and competitive campaigns over international tournaments that are not part of the official FIFA calendar. The Olympics, while prestigious, do not carry the same weight in football as the World Cup or continental championships. Therefore, clubs often weigh the benefits of releasing players against their own strategic needs.



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Like Mbappe: Madrid veto another star from playing at Olympics

In a significant decision, Real Madrid have decided not to release Brahim Diaz for the upcoming Olympics in Paris.

Brahim Diaz is electing to represent Morocco at the international level, going against his birth nation of <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/spain-national-team-tv-schedule/">Spain</a>. Diaz has already made one appearance for the Spanish national team. He scored a goal in a friendly against Lithuania on June 8, 2021. However, since that was not an official competition, Diaz is allowed to switch allegiance. As the son of a Moroccan father, Diaz has the eligibility to represent <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/nations/morocco-national-team-tv-schedule/">Morocco</a>. He has never featured for Morocco at any level, even though he was a candidate to feature in the nation’s squad at AFCON 2023.



According to ESPN, Diaz’s reason for switching allegiance comes down to the Royal Spanish Football Federation, or RFEF. Diaz has not had consistent communication with RFEF about the potential of featuring in Spain’s squad for March friendlies. Comparatively, Morocco is providing Diaz the chance to play consistently as an international. Therefore, all signs point to Diaz’s inclusion in Walid Regragui’s squad for friendlies against Angola and Mauritania.



The lack of communication from RFEF extends to the federation’s <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/barcelonas-lamine-yamal-to-feature-on-spain-squad-at-16-years-old-20230828-WST-452600.html">attempts to court Lamine Yamal</a>. The <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/news/psg-offer-barcelona-218-million-for-wonderkid-lamine-yamal/">Barcelona teenager</a> is the hottest commodity among national teams. A star in the making with Barcelona, Spain sent multiple high-ranking executives to ensure Lamine Yamal represents Spain. Much like Brahim Diaz, Yamal is eligible for the Morocco national team. Diaz is a talented and capable backup option for whichever team does not get Lamine Yamal.



Brahim Diaz has shown flashes of brilliance despite already hitting the age of 24. For example, Diaz scored <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uq86TgzErEI" target="_blank" rel="noreferrer noopener">a stunning goal</a> to give <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/teams/real-madrid-tv-schedule/">Real Madrid</a> a lead against RB Leipzig in the UEFA Champions League round of 16. This season, Diaz has eight goals and four assists. He also spent three seasons at <a href="https://worldsoccertalk.com/ac-milan-tv-schedule/">AC Milan</a> on loan, where he made over a century of appearances. 



<figure class="wp-block-image size-large"><figure class="image"><img loading="lazy" width="1200" height="670" src="https://ds-images.bolavip.com/news/image?src=https://images.worldsoccertalk.com/webp/full/WST_20240311_WST_494596_Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-1200x670_d0ddc617.webp&amp;width=1200&amp;height=670" alt="" class="wp-image-494597" srcset="https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-1200x670.jpg 1200w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-300x168.jpg 300w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid-768x429.jpg 768w, https://worldsoccertalk.cms.futbolsitesnetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2024/03/Brahim-Diaz-Real-MAdrid.jpg 1280w" sizes="(max-width: 1200px) 100vw, 1200px"></figure></figure>



<h2>Brahim Diaz adds to developing Morocco side</h2>



If the 24-year-old joins Morocco for its friendlies in the March international window, he will join a Morocco side that recently reached the World Cup semifinals for the first time. Achraf Hakimi is the star of the squad, and his background is similar to Brahim Diaz. Much like the Real Madrid forward, Hakimi was born in Spain to Moroccan parents. However, Hakimi spent his youth international career with Morocco. 



He joins up with players like Hakim Ziyech, Youssef En-Nesyri, Yassine Bounou and Sofyan Amrabat. Each of those players played a key role in Morocco’s historic run to the last four at the World Cup. A surprise exit in the round of 16 at AFCON 2023 was a disappointment, but the talent is there.



<h2>First appearances in March friendlies</h2>



Moroccan supporters will be able to see Diaz in those two friendlies at home should Walid Regragui bring him up. Angola and Mauritania will not be too tough of a challenge for Morocco, but it will allow Diaz to acquaint himself with new teammates. Both games are in Agadir. Then, in the summer, Diaz will likely be a part of the squad when Morocco picks up World Cup qualifying for 2026. Morocco will play Zambia and Morocco for its second and third group-stage games. 



PHOTOS: IMAGO

Real's Brahim Diaz chooses Morocco over Spain national team

Brahim Diaz is electing to represent Morocco at the international level, going against his birth nation of Spain.

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