Brahim returns to Valdebebas after a tournament that left its mark

Brahim Díaz is back at Real Madrid. The Spanish-Moroccan forward returned to training after completing his Africa Cup of Nations campaign, where he was a standout performer for Morocco, though his tournament ended in heartbreaking fashion. After a short rest period, the attacker trained at the same intensity as the rest of the squad, putting any physical concerns behind him and setting his sights on the upcoming LaLiga fixture.

Brahim’s return is far from routine. He comes back after an intense tournament in which he finished as top scorer and a key figure for the African side, but also after missing a decisive penalty in the final against Senegal, a moment that denied Morocco a title they have not won since 1976. Now, the challenge is different: turn the page and rediscover his best version in a Real Madrid shirt.

Arbeloa regains a key piece ahead of Villarreal

The presence of Brahim Díaz is excellent news for Álvaro Arbeloa, who could include him in the squad for the clash against Villarreal, a match marked in red due to its importance in the LaLiga title race. The coach gains an attacking alternative that brings dribbling ability, mobility and late runs from deep.

The context is significant. Real Madrid need squad depth in a demanding calendar, and Brahim, who has an agreement in place to extend his contract until 2030, returns motivated to prove that what happened in Africa does not define his season. The support he has received from the dressing room and from historic figures at the club has been key in accelerating his emotional reintegration.

Doubts remain: makeshift defense and attacking uncertainties

Not everything is positive news at Valdebebas. Rüdiger continues to train individually and remains unavailable, while Asencio only completed part of the session with the group and is still dealing with discomfort. However, he is expected to be available for the Villarreal match, with a final decision to be made after the last training session.

These absences add to the long-term injuries of Trent and Militao, as well as the situation of Mendy, whose involvement this season has been minimal.

The right wing, Arbeloa’s biggest dilemma

In this scenario, the return of Brahim Díaz opens up an intriguing range of options on the right wing. The recent strong performance of Mastantuono, combined with the possible return of Rodrygo, creates internal competition that Arbeloa will need to manage carefully.

Brahim arrives with match fitness, though still carrying an evident emotional burden from the African final. The key question is whether the coach will give him immediate minutes or opt for a more gradual reintegration.

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