Brahim Diaz’s lack of playing time at Real Madrid has prompted growing frustration in Morocco, with observers questioning the forward’s apparent acceptance of his situation at the Spanish club.

Diaz was named among the substitutes for Saturday’s La Liga match against Valencia and did not come on until the 84th minute. By then, Real Madrid were already in control, with their 0-3 victory effectively settled and the final goal having been scored in the 75th minute.

The appearance was therefore limited, but it was the wider pattern that has angered some of Diaz’s compatriots. The 27-year-old, a key member of the Morocco squad with 34 caps and 15 goals, has now started on the bench in 11 consecutive matches for Real Madrid in all competitions.

His path into the starting XI on the right side of attack has been blocked by Arda Guler and summer signing Yan Diomande. The two players are six and seven years younger than Diaz respectively.

Moroccan football insider Youssef, who is regarded as being close to the Federation royale marocaine de football (FRMF), believes the player should consider leaving the club.

“It may be time to show some pride and leave this club,” Youssef said.

Despite Diaz’s considerable talent, Youssef is concerned that the lack of regular football could affect his physical condition and leave him struggling with fatigue during a competition.

The former Manchester City player’s willingness to remain at Real Madrid has also drawn criticism in Morocco. Some observers believe he gives the club greater importance than any other consideration, and that nothing matches the significance of wearing the club’s white shirt.

That perception has occasionally led to accusations that Diaz undervalues the Morocco national team when compared with Real Madrid.

Diaz joined Real Madrid from Manchester City in January 2019 before spending three seasons on loan at AC Milan. He returned to Madrid permanently in the summer of 2023, determined to establish himself at the club.

He had already been used primarily as a substitute under Carlo Ancelotti and Xabi Alonso before the Jose Mourinho era. Even so, Diaz played an active role in Real Madrid’s Champions League triumph two years ago, operating as an influential substitute.

His current run on the bench has left Moroccan observers concerned that a player regarded as an important figure for the national side is not receiving enough competitive football at club level.