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The Radical Turn in Brahim Díaz’s Career After Choosing Morocco Over Spain
One decision changed everything. Brahim Díaz turned his back on Spain and found his true footballing identity with Morocco at AFCON 2025.
Brahim Díaz’s international career has taken a dramatic and defining turn since he chose to represent Morocco instead of Spain. What once looked like a promising but uncertain path with La Roja has transformed into a starring role with the Atlas Lions, where the Real Madrid attacker has emerged as one of the most influential players of AFCON 2025.
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From Spain’s youth system to an early senior debut
Born in Spain to Moroccan heritage, Brahim Díaz represented Spain at every youth level. He played nine matches for the U-17s, scoring three goals, added eight appearances with the U-19 side, and featured eight times for the U-21s, where he found the net twice. His progression culminated in a senior debut on June 7, 2021, when he scored in a friendly against Lithuania — a moment that appeared to confirm his place in Spain’s long-term plans.
A 180-degree decision that changed everything
Despite that early breakthrough, opportunities with Spain’s senior team never fully materialized. Faced with a career crossroads, Brahim made a bold and deeply personal decision: to switch international allegiance and commit to Morocco. It was a move that reshaped his trajectory both emotionally and professionally, reconnecting him with his roots while opening the door to a central role on the international stage.
Immediate impact with the Atlas Lions
Brahim debuted for Morocco on March 21, 2024, in a friendly against Angola. Since then, his numbers have been nothing short of remarkable: 19 appearances and 12 goals with the Atlas Lions. Far from being just another attacking option, he quickly became a reference point in the team’s offensive structure, combining creativity, goals, and leadership in decisive moments.
AFCON 2025: the tournament that crowned his transformation
That evolution has been fully on display at AFCON 2025. Brahim has scored in every single match Morocco have played in the tournament so far, establishing himself as the engine of the host nation’s attack. His consistency, composure, and ability to deliver under pressure have made him a leading candidate for the tournament’s MVP award, while Morocco dream of lifting the trophy on home soil.
What once seemed like a risky change of direction now looks like a masterstroke. Brahim Díaz didn’t just change national teams — he reinvented his international career. At AFCON 2025, he is no longer a player searching for his place, but the man Morocco look to when the moment demands greatness.
