Diaz Out of Morocco Friendlies But Says ‘This is Home'

Morocco World

a day ago

Morocco's Brahim Diaz has confirmed he won't feature in the upcoming friendlies against Tunisia and Benin due to fitness concerns – but says he's fully committed to supporting the squad from the sidelines.
'It's been a good year, but a very tough one. I'm happy to be here with the national team. As I've always said, this is our home and our family. I'm just really pleased to be part of it,' the Real Madrid playmaker told the Royal Moroccan Football Federation's website.
Despite being ruled out of action due to a muscle injury in his adductor , Diaz says that his presence with the group still matters. 'Unfortunately, I can't play in the two matches, but I'm here to support the team. We feel really comfortable together, and I'm happy to be with the players,' he added.
The 25-year-old also spoke about keeping sharp while out of match action. 'Even if you're not playing, when you feel at ease in a place, it makes a huge difference. I'm training, doing fitness work, getting myself ready to be at my best again. We're preparing well and we're really enjoying our time with the squad.'
'So much love and appreciation'
Diaz rounded off with a heartfelt message to Moroccan fans, who've flooded him with messages of support. 'Thank you so much to all the fans. I've received so much love and appreciation. It makes me want to give back even more – and I will. I'll do everything I can for you. I love you as much as you love me. Thank you.'
Morocco team doctor Christophe Baudot confirmed the news on Tuesday, saying Diaz is continuing treatment at the Mohammed VI Football Complex. 'He won't be ready in time for the Tunisia match,' said Baudot. 'We'll assess his progress ahead of the second game.'
Diaz started Madrid's final league match against Real Sociedad but was forced off in the 55th minute. His absence is a blow for Walid Regragui, who is already dealing with several injuries in the squad.
Nayef Aguerd, Noussair Mazraoui, Ghanem Saïss and Chemsdine Talbi are all unavailable, while Abdessamad Ezzalzouli remains a doubt.
In response, Regragui has handed a first senior call-up to FAR Rabat midfielder Amine Zahzouh, one of the standout players in Morocco's top flight this season. Zahzouh scored 11 goals and provided 13 assists in 43 appearances, finishing the campaign as the Botola Pro's top playmaker.
The 23-year-old was already training with Morocco's local-based national team at Maâmora and joined the senior squad for Tuesday's session.
Morocco's upcoming two friendlies in Fez – against Tunisia on June 6 and Benin on June 9 – are part of the build-up to next year's Africa Cup of Nations on home soil. Tags: BeninBrahim DiazMorocco national teamTunisia