Real Madrid News
Brahim Diaz talks Ancelotti, Asensio, Benzema, Mbappe, Rodrygo at Real Madrid presentation
After presenting Fran Garcia as a Real Madrid player on Monday afternoon, Los Blancos unveiled Brahim Diaz earlier today, with the Spanish playmaker returning to the club after spending three years away on loan at AC Milan.
Diaz joined Real Madrid in January 2019 from Manchester City, but was sent out on loan to Milan in the summer of 2020. Having spent a year at San Siro, the 23-year-old returned to Lombardy again in 2021, this time on a two-year stint.
Diaz enjoyed a largely successful stint in Milan and is now back at Real Madrid after three years. The Spanish ace has even signed a new contract with the club that keeps him tied down at the Santiago Bernabeu until 2027.
“I know what this shirt means and what it means to represent Real Madrid. I’m coming back more prepared and eager to improve myself and the demands of Real Madrid mark my day-to-day,” Diaz said at his presentation.
Diaz arrives at Real Madrid at a time when they have lost two key attackers in Karim Benzema and Marco Asensio. When asked if it means added pressure for him, the 23-year-old replied:
“The truth is that they are two great players… it’s obvious that it adds pressure, but this is Real Madrid and you always have to give the best of yourself. We will try to represent Madrid as the best club in the world.”
On how his time at Milan has helped him, Diaz said: “These three years at Milan have been very useful for me. I have matured a lot on and off the pitch. We will see a Brahim who comes back with a great desire to succeed at Madrid. That’s why I’m coming back, to succeed in the best team in the world.
“It’s been three seasons with Milan with quite high demands. We have restored Milan’s hopes. When I came last time I was a kid, now I have played more games, more matches, in the Champions League. That makes you more mature.”
Diaz is known for his versatility as he can play as a No. 10, on the right flank, or even as a central midfielder. When asked which was his favourite position, the Spaniard said:
“I am lucky to be able to play with both feet. I think it gives me an extra edge. The best position is wherever the coach puts me and I will keep saying that. I can play in all three attacking positions and in midfield.”
Having played in the Premier League, La Liga and Serie A, Diaz was asked about the differences between the three top leagues in Europe, to which he replied:
“I have had the privilege to learn a lot. In each one it has been different. I have matured a lot. The Premier League is a bit more physical, La Liga is much more technical, and in Italy, it’s all more tactical. It’s been very good for me to come back to learn and to come back with a lot of enthusiasm.”
When asked if he sees himself as a starter at Real Madrid, Diaz insisted that the competition for places is good for the team and that he just needs to focus on what the coach wants from him.
“There is competition, but that’s good. We are at the best club in the world, with the best players. I’m coming back to succeed, but with hard work and humility and to learn from the dressing room. I have to work hard and listen to the coach,” he stated.
On his possible competition with Rodrygo Goes on the right flank, Real Madrid’s new No. 21 said: “It’s not about fighting, it’s about us being team-mates and wanting the best for the team. Rodrygo is a great player, he has incredible talent. I will give the best version of myself and contribute work to win titles.”
When asked if he ever thought that a return to Real Madrid would not be possible, Diaz replied: “I am here. I am very happy. When I was at Milan I tried to do my best for Milan. Now I have the opportunity to be here. It was my first choice, where I always wanted to play.”
Diaz has been talked about as a possible replacement for Asensio. When asked if he was ready to essay the role of a super sub like his fellow Spaniard, the youngster said:
“Asensio is a great player and teammate. It’s not about being a luxury substitute, but about giving the maximum for Real Madrid. I work every day and learn from everything to always improve.”
On whether he has had a chance to speak to Carlo Ancelotti, Diaz said: “I haven’t had the opportunity to talk to Ancelotti. I’m happy to be able to work with him and I can’t wait for him to get the ball rolling.”
With there being so much talk about Kylian Mbappe to Real Madrid over the past 18 hours or so, the Merengues’ new addition was asked about the possibility of playing with the French superstar.
However, Diaz did not get drawn into the speculations, as he said: “I don’t think this is the time. Today is my day. I imagined the question. I’m happy to be at Madrid and whoever is in the dressing room I’ll be happy.”
Source: Real Madrid TV
Journalist Arancha Rodriguez has claimed that Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz played the Las Palmas game with a dislocation in his right shoulder, which actually happened last Sunday during the derby match against Atletico Madrid.
The news was later confirmed by the forward’s father, Sufiel Abdekalder, who told The Athletic, “Yes [he had dislocated shoulder], but we didn’t want it to be public. Our 100% focus was on the match.”
The former AC Milan loanee started his first game of the season and it was his goal that marked the beginning of Real Madrid’s 2-0 win over Las Palmas.
The 24-year-old was later replaced in the 57th minute but by then, the Los Blancos had already established a two-goal lead.
“I’m so proud, you can’t describe the feeling, it’s something unique. I can only thank the fans because I’ve had an incredible welcome. I’m very happy to be here and play for this badge,” the forward said after the game.
Special outing for Diaz
The Las Palmas game was the first time that Diaz started a game for Real Madrid.
The versatile attacking midfielder found himself among the five alterations made by Carlo Ancelotti following the disheartening derby performance against Atletico Madrid last Sunday, a game where Diaz was only introduced in the 70th minute.
The 24-year-old seized the opportunity with both hands, scoring the opening goal in what was a comfortable outing for the team.
Given the competition at hand, Diaz has been forced to settle for substitute appearances this season but fans have witnessed his unwavering dedication during this time.
The love he received from the Madrid supporters was shown when he was substituted during the second half.
While it is unlikely that his run in the first-team will continue, especially since Vinicius Jr. has now returned, the 24-year-old must continue to keep his head on the ground and work towards achieving the common goal this season.
