Real Madrid News
Real Madrid attacker wants to ‘make history’ with national team despite snub for major award
Real Madrid forward Brahim Diaz is preparing to face his former club, AC Milan, in the UEFA Champions League this evening and speaking ahead of the game, the 25-year-old player expressed his excitement about representing Morocco on the international stage.
He shared that his ultimate goal is to create a lasting legacy with the Moroccan national team. He also took a moment to acknowledge the warm reception he has received from Morocco and its people.
Brahim, who was recently left out of CAF awards, feels immense pride in wearing the Moroccan national team jersey. He has expressed his gratitude to Morocco and the entire African continent for the love and hospitality extended to him since he joined the team.
“I am very proud to wear the Moroccan national team jersey. I am grateful to Morocco and the entire African continent for all the love and warm welcome I have received,” he began saying as quoted by Mundo Deportivo.
A big family
The player has described his experience with the Moroccan national team as akin to being part of a large, supportive family. This sense of belonging has made his transition to the national team smooth and enjoyable.
“Thanks to the love and warm welcome from all the members of the team, I have always had the feeling of being part of this big family,”
He has particularly fond memories of the warm welcome he received in Oujda, which he considers one of the most memorable moments of his football career.
“The welcome in Oujda will remain one of the most precious moments of my career,” he added.
In October 2023, Brahim made a significant decision to represent Morocco instead of Spain, despite having played for the Spanish national team in the past.
This commitment to his Moroccan heritage reflects his desire to contribute to the success of the national team. Since pledging his allegiance to Morocco, he has played six matches and has scored two goals for the African side.
Real Madrid News
Real Madrid star Huijsen credits Mourinho for improved form in new season: ‘He supports me a lot’
Real Madrid will be looking to get back to winning ways in LaLiga as they take on Rayo Vallecano on Saturday.
The club are coming on the back of a 1-0 defeat to Real Betis last weekend but did secure a narrow win over Inter Milan in the midweek Champions League fixture.
Heading into this game, Dean Huijsen, who has been showing a lot of promise in these early parts of the season, spoke to the club’s official media about the match ahead and how Real Madrid have been coping with the pressure early on, among other things.
Huijsen on Rayo and his defensive duties
The young centre-back was fully aware of the threat posed by Rayo and praised the opposition.
“We know that Rayo is a good team, and it’s a tough team to face, and we must give our all as we do in all matches to secure the three points, that’s the only thing that matters, and for the Bernabeu to be with us and for us all to be united,” he said.
He also detailed the defensive demands placed on him by the coaching staff led by Jose Mourinho.
“Well, what every coach asks of you: ferocity, intercepting balls, and winning one-on-one duels. He supports me a lot, and I think this helps me greatly, and defending together as a team,” he said.
On the team’s preparations for the fixture, Huijsen offered an insight into their training routine.
“We’re working on some tactics related to the opponent. And well, after that it depends on the day; we might play a mini-match among ourselves or not,” he added.
Huijsen on Mourinho and his fine form
The Spaniard was quick to credit Mourinho, with whom he previously worked at Roma, for his development and current level.
“We’ve known each other for a while, even though we spent a relatively short time together in Rome. He gave me the opportunity to make the real leap into professional football, and I’ll always be grateful to him for that,” Huijsen said.
Reflecting on his own performances, the defender was in confident mood, once again pointing to the influence of his coach and teammates.
“I think I’m in good shape. Well, I think I’m delivering a good level, and I believe that’s thanks to the coach too, as he keeps track of me and takes great care of me.”
“Well, I’m also doing my very best, and I think the teammates are supporting me too, and this is the perfect equation,” he added.
Finally, Huijsen explained how he manages his recovery amid a congested schedule.
“There are a lot of matches, so we need to recover well and stay focused on football, then you have to sleep well. And yes, on the days after the match, I also take a cold shower and a hot shower to recover better,” he concluded.
