The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) has not been in contact with Real Madrid striker Brahim Díaz, who has chosen to represent Morocco instead of Spain in international competition, sources told ESPN. The choice has provoked debate and a response from Luis de la Fuente, the coach of Spain’s national team.
Disappointment With Spanish Federation
According to Cope, Brahim feels “very disappointed” with the Spanish Football Federation taking its time over approaching him in light of a fantastic season thus far at the Bernabeu. He feels put out by nobody from Spain even reaching out to him, which has led to a change of his original decision, which was to play for his mother’s country instead.
Brahim originally intended to represent his mother’s homeland, but sources suggest that he felt forgotten by Spain. The Malaga-born 24-year-old voiced that his decision to switch allegiance stemmed from his dissatisfaction with the Spanish national team’s lack of contact.
Coach de la Fuente’s Response To Brahim Diaz
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Spain coach Luis de la Fuente said Monday he respected Brahim Díaz’s decision to represent Morocco rather than his team, adding that only individuals who want to play for La Roja are welcome in his squad.
The daily Marca and other local media said that the Real Madrid winger would join the Morocco squad for the upcoming international break.“I absolutely respect his decision,” De la Fuente told Spanish media. “Everyone has to make their own decisions.
“But I also always say that there are three requirements when it comes to being with our national team. First, that he is eligible; second, that he wants to be with the team; and third, that the coach selects him. But the most important thing is to want to play for us, without demands or conditions, with the same equality of rights and obligations as all other players.” De la Fuente stated that he had not spoken to Díaz, who holds dual citizenship, before or after the player’s decision was announced.
Moroccan FA’s Influence
Marca’s Juan Castro reports that the Moroccan Football Federation’s president and Moroccan minister delegate for the budget, Fouzi Lekjaa, actively persuaded Diaz to switch allegiances, influencing his decision. Despite previously representing Spain at the youth level, Diaz did not feel the same level of appreciation from La Roja and its coaching staff.
If called up, Diaz, who is committed to Morocco, is expected to have the opportunity to make his international debut for the Atlas Lions against Angola on March 22nd. Following the international break, Diaz will return to Real Madrid, where he will continue his quest for the La Liga title, with the team currently holding a seven-point lead after a recent victory over Celta Vigo.
Brahim Diaz’s Eligibility and Future Prospects
Diaz’s eligibility to represent Morocco stems from his paternal grandfather, Brahim Diaz Abdelkader, who was born in Morocco. This familial link, combined with Diaz’s desire for greater recognition at the international level, played a significant role in his decision to choose Morocco over Spain.
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Brahim Diaz’s decision to represent Morocco instead of Spain has stirred discussions within the football community. This transfer highlights the difficulties of international football loyalty, even though the player’s unhappiness with the Spanish Football Federation’s lack of attention is evident.