Xabi Alonso maintains full confidence in versatile Real Madrid star pushing for minutes | OneFootball

Another year at Real Madrid and Brahim Diaz finds himself in an all too familiar situation. Despite delivering more often than not whenever called upon, the versatile Moroccan attacker finds himself struggling for regular minutes.

So far this term, the former Manchester City starlet has played less than 250 minutes in all competitions, with Franco Mastantuono moving ahead of him in the pecking order on the right flank under new manager Xabi Alonso.

Full faith in Brahim

Despite not having given him much minutes, Alonso retains full trust and confidence in Brahim, reports AS.

The Spanish tactician, as per the report, was instrumental in finalising the details of Brahim’s new long-term contract, which has been fully agreed upon but is yet to be announced officially.

The 26-year-old attacker’s current deal runs until 2027, and the new one will keep him at the Santiago Bernabeu at least until 2030.

Alonso believes Brahim’s high-intensity, hard-working, and vertical style of play fits perfectly within his tactical framework.

Brahim pushing for minutes

Pushing for a bigger role. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)

Brahim, for his part, faces his current situation and the lack of minutes at Real Madrid with patience and not with frustration.

Having won over Alonso’ predecessor, Carlo Ancelotti, through hard work, daily effort, and attitude, the Moroccan international is using the same formula this season, to regain the prominence and reclaim his place in the starting lineup.

Brahim has not started since the game against Real Sociedad in early September, but is making a case for more minutes with impactful displays.

The 26-year-old versatile attacker scored a goal against Kairat Almaty after coming on as a late substitute. Against Villarreal at the Bernabeu , he played 15 minutes and still found time to set up Kylian Mbappe to seal the victory.

In the 239 minutes he has played so far, Brahim has one goal and two assists – a direct goal contribution every 80 minutes. And he is pushing for more.