Brahim Díaz is among the 23 players called up by José Mourinho for Real Madrid’s match against Espanyol, this Saturday at 9:30 PM at the RCDE Stadium. This match, part of the second round of La Liga, will mark the first official game for the Portuguese coach since his return to the helm of the Madrid club.
The Atlas Lion is one of five forwards selected, alongside Vinícius Jr., Kylian Mbappé, Carlos Espí, and Yan Diomande. Real will notably have to cope without Rodrygo, who is still sidelined, and Endrick, who is suffering from a minor muscle issue. These absences reduce Mourinho’s offensive options and could offer more responsibilities to the Moroccan international.
Brahim Díaz approaches this first official outing after a convincing preparation. He scored during the victory against Deportivo La Coruña (1-0) in the Teresa-Herrera Trophy and was also a starter in the last friendly match won against Schalke 04 (3-0).
Some segments of the Spanish press present him as a serious candidate for a spot in the starting eleven, particularly on the right side of the attack. However, Brahim remains in competition with new recruit Yan Diomande, who is also expected to start. Mourinho’s final choice will only be known at the time of the official lineup announcement.
