MADRID – Real Madrid manager Álvaro Arbeloa has acknowledged that Brahim Díaz isn’t receiving the playing time he deserves, sparking questions about the 26-year-old’s role within the squad. The situation has turn into increasingly scrutinized following Díaz’s return from international duty with Morocco and a recent run of appearances largely limited to late-game substitutions.
Díaz, who has become a key figure for the Moroccan national team, hasn’t consistently translated that form to the Spanish capital. Since returning from the Africa Cup of Nations, where Morocco finished as runners-up, he has started only one of Real Madrid’s nine matches. He was an unused substitute during the second leg of their Champions League tie against Benfica, further fueling speculation about his standing within the team. The limited minutes are particularly notable given Kylian Mbappé’s recent injury, which would seemingly open up opportunities in the attack.
On Monday, Díaz entered the match against Getafe at the 87th minute, a late appearance that underscored his current peripheral role. This lack of consistent playing time is prompting questions, especially considering his capabilities as an attacking midfielder or winger, as noted by his Wikipedia profile.
Arbeloa Takes Responsibility
Addressing the media on Thursday, Arbeloa directly responded to inquiries about Díaz’s limited minutes. His response, however, offered more questions than answers. “Why does Brahim Díaz play little? For nothing. The truth is that he plays less than he deserves, and that’s my fault,” Arbeloa stated, according to reports. “He trains perfectly well and we know his capabilities.”
Arbeloa continued, expressing confidence in Díaz’s potential. “I am certain that we can use him more than I currently do. It is my responsibility and I will do everything possible to remedy it.” The coach’s admission of underutilization, while acknowledging Díaz’s quality, doesn’t explain the tactical reasoning behind the decision.
This situation is particularly interesting given Brahim Díaz’s journey. Originally signed by Manchester City in 2015, he later moved to Real Madrid in 2019, spending three seasons on loan at AC Milan before returning to the Spanish capital. His career has been marked by flashes of brilliance, but as well periods of inconsistency, as highlighted in reports about his current form.
A Complex Identity and Rising International Star
Díaz’s story extends beyond club football. Born in Málaga, Spain, to a Spanish mother and a Moroccan-Riffian father, he navigated a dual identity from a young age. He initially represented Spain at various youth levels – U17, U19, and U21 – before switching his allegiance to Morocco in 2023. The BBC reports that he has quickly become a national icon for Morocco, emerging as their top scorer at the recent Africa Cup of Nations.
This transition to the Moroccan national team appears to have unlocked a new level of confidence and performance for Díaz. He has 22 caps and 13 goals for Morocco as of January 18, 2026, according to data from Wikipedia. His early life, shaped by futsal and a patient development approach, instilled in him close control, explosive acceleration, and the ability to operate effectively in tight spaces – qualities that make him a dangerous attacking threat.
The contrast between his international success and limited playing time at Real Madrid raises questions about how Arbeloa intends to integrate Díaz into the team’s plans. The coach’s acknowledgement of the issue is a first step, but concrete action will be needed to unlock the player’s full potential.
For fans following La Liga, the situation with Díaz adds another layer of intrigue to Real Madrid’s season. With Mbappé sidelined, the pressure is on to find consistent attacking solutions, and Díaz represents a potentially valuable asset. Whether Arbeloa can find a way to utilize him effectively remains to be seen.
Real Madrid will travel to Vigo to face Celta on Friday, and it will be interesting to observe whether Díaz receives increased playing time. The match presents an opportunity for him to demonstrate his capabilities and potentially earn a more prominent role within the squad.
The next confirmed checkpoint for Real Madrid is their La Liga match against Celta Vigo on Friday, March 6th. Fans can follow updates on the club’s official website and social media channels.
