They Revealed When Brahim Diaz Decided for Morocco
Moroccan coach Walid Regragui revealed on Thursday that a year and a half ago, when he took charge of the Maghreb country's national team, he visited Brahim Diaz in Milan. The striker then gave him his word that he would play for "The Lions of the Atlas."
"He gave us his word and didn't lie; he kept his commitment when he was playing for Milan," Regragui said at a press conference on the eve of the friendly match between Morocco and Angola at the Grand Stadium in Agadir (Morocco).
According to Regragui, the issue wasn't whether Brahim had agreed to play for Morocco or not, but rather about the "timing." "He chose to play for Morocco at a difficult time for him, and we have to say bravo; he will win the hearts of Moroccans," he pointed out.
"Even though Spain called him up, he chose to play for Morocco," Regragui said, adding that they are "very happy about Brahim's arrival" because "it's always a pleasure to have a Real Madrid player in a national team."
"In Morocco, we are very happy to have a player like Brahim, and we are sure he will do great things for our national team," he added.
Regarding whether the Spanish-Moroccan player will participate in the Olympic Games, Regragui mentioned that the schedule for next year "is complicated for players," as there will be the Club World Cup, the Olympics, and then the Africa Cup of Nations.
"If the U-23 coach wants Brahim or another player like Ashraf, we will support him to have a good Olympic tournament. It will also depend on the club because it's not a FIFA date, but if the coach wants him and Real Madrid allows it, we will be happy to see him at the Olympics," he stated.
Regarding Brahim's integration into the team, the coach said there are no adaptation issues since he plays with teammates like Ashraf who are also in the Spanish league.
Regragui shared his perspective on Brahim's position on the field, highlighting the tactical flexibility the player brings to the team.
"Having Diaz gives us more tactical options; he can play as an attacking midfielder (No. 10)," said Regragui, who confirmed that the Real Madrid forward will play in Friday's match against Angola, although he noted that they won't be demanding too much from him "from the first game."
He also mentioned that Hakim Zyach, who traditionally played in that position, also has the ability to play on the right wing, although he doesn't rule out his contribution as a No. 10.
He assured that he "doesn't see any impediment for them to play at the same time."
Regragui emphasized the importance of adaptability and cohesion among players: "We need some games to foster connection between them," he suggested, indicating that synergy on the field is crucial for the team's success.
