Labyad gains ground under Diniz and targets Corinthians start, says he believes in his quality | OneFootball

Zakaria Labyad is forcing his case at Corinthians under Fernando Diniz after decisive contributions in consecutive games. According to Globo.com, the Moroccan midfielder is pushing for a place in the starting XI.

He struck the equaliser against Peñarol in the Conmebol Libertadores, then followed up by scoring the winner in Sunday’s 1-0 victory over Atlético-MG in the Brasileirão.

Labyad arrived amid scepticism after being recommended by long-time friend Memphis Depay. He points to nine career titles, including being a three-time champion in the Netherlands with Ajax, and says he is at Corinthians to show his quality and make history.

When he was signed, Dorival Júnior made clear publicly that the move had not been requested by him. Of the nine games under Dorival after the 20 February announcement, Labyad featured in three, none from the start, for 70 minutes in total.

Under Diniz, he has appeared in nine of 14 matches, starting once, for 226 minutes. The coach said he initially changed little amid a packed calendar and, knowing little about Labyad, limited his minutes until training and games revealed more of his qualities. Diniz has since praised his technique, game intelligence and professionalism.

Labyad maintains he believes in his quality, noting he has stayed patient over the past three months and tried to make the most of his opportunities.

Source: Globo.com