Former Barcelona boss defends Real Madrid star Brahim amid backlash | OneFootball

Former Barcelona head coach Luis Enrique has moved to throw his backing behind the under-fire Brahim Díaz.

This of course comes amid a widespread backlash against the Real Madrid man.

Brahim was at the heart of a moment which will live long in the memory on Sunday evening. Unfortunately for the 26-year-old, though, as much came for less than positive reasons…

Deep into injury-time in the AFCON final between Morocco and Senegal, Brahim was afforded a golden opportunity to secure the title for the former.

This came upon a penalty being awarded to the tournament hosts.

After stepping up amid chaotic scenes, however, the versatile attacker saw his bizarre ‘panenka’ spot-kick easily saved by Eduoard Mendy.

Brahim has since been the subject of widespread criticism and abuse, for attempting such a nonchalant finish in such a defining moment.

As alluded to above, though, a day on, the ex-AC Milan man has received the backing of Paris Saint-Germain headmaster Luis Enrique.

Speaking during an exchange with the media on Monday, tactician Enrique insisted:

“Brahim’s panenka… We talked about it on the bus today. I remember Zidane, a football God, who did that during a World Cup. When it works, everyone applauds; when you miss, there’s a lot of criticism. Brahim, I know him: he’s a magnificent, exceptional player. What’s happening right now is very unfair. It’s just sports, he’s not a murderer or a bad person.”

Conor Laird – GSFN