RESOLVING THE LEDGER
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Versatile Real Madrid star not upset with Mourinho after being left out against Espanyol – report
Brahim Diaz’s complete absence from Real Madrid’s opening-day win over Espanyol raised plenty of questions, especially after the midfielder had been among the more heavily used players during pre-season.
Jose Mourinho chose Jude Bellingham in his starting XI and kept Brahim on the bench.
Even when changes were made after the break, the Moroccan attacker did not get his chance, with Yan Diomande handed his debut instead.
For some, the decision raised doubts over Brahim’s role in Mourinho’s plans for the 2026/27 season, but the player has taken a very different view of the situation.
According to Defensa Central , Brahim is not angry with Mourinho and has accepted the coach’s decision.
Rather, he remains convinced that he will have an important part to play over the course of the campaign.
Brahim Diaz’s place is not under threat
Brahim Diaz is not angry or frustrated for not playing against Espanyol. (Photo by Christof Koepsel/Getty Images)
The Espanyol match was a surprising one for Brahim. His involvement during pre-season had suggested that he would be in the mix for the opening game, yet he was unable to get onto the pitch.
Still, there is no sense of conflict between the player and his manager.
Brahim understands the level of competition within the Real Madrid squad and accepts that Mourinho had other options available to him for the first La Liga match.
He also feels valued within the dressing room and knows that one match without minutes does not define his season.
Sources close to the player have made it clear that Brahim is unhappy about missing out, as no footballer enjoys sitting on the bench, but he is not upset with Mourinho or preparing to create an issue over his role.
Brahim Diaz understands his situation at Real Madrid. (Photo by Jose Manuel Alvarez Rey/Getty Images)
Instead, he has made it clear to the staff at Valdebebas that he is happy with the manager and ready to fight for his opportunities.
Mourinho has told Brahim to be ready for his chance
The key reason behind Brahim’s calm reaction is the confidence Mourinho has shown in him .
The Real Madrid coach has spoken with his players about their initial roles, while explaining that the situation can change depending on performances during the season.
Brahim begins the campaign as a secondary option, but that does not mean he will spend the year on the sidelines.
In fact, Mourinho has already told him to be prepared, with the midfielder potentially in contention to start against Real Sociedad on Wednesday.
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