According to a report by Madrid Universal on Saturday, October 17, 2026, Brahim Diaz could consider leaving Real Madrid during the January transfer window as concerns grow over his limited playing opportunities under Jose Mourinho. The Moroccan international is reportedly becoming frustrated with his reduced role, with his absence from the club's dramatic 4-3 comeback victory against AS Roma further highlighting the uncertainty surrounding his future.

Real Madrid found themselves trailing 1-3 during the encounter and needed additional attacking options to change the outcome. However, Mourinho chose not to introduce Brahim despite the team's difficult situation. The decision raised further questions about the midfielder's standing within the squad, particularly after he had featured prominently during pre-season preparations.

Brahim's circumstances have changed significantly since the beginning of the competitive campaign. Morocco's early elimination from the 2026 FIFA World Cup allowed him to work closely with Mourinho ahead of the new season, creating expectations that he could play an important role. Nevertheless, those expectations have yet to translate into consistent first-team involvement.

The 27-year-old has accumulated only 178 minutes across four appearances in Real Madrid's opening ten matches of the season. Of the 20 players used by the Spanish club during that period, only Carlos Espi and Endrick have recorded fewer minutes, with 38 and 35 respectively.

A closer examination of Brahim's appearances reveals that most of his playing time has come in just two matches. His starts against Malaga in the league and Inter in the Champions League account for 143 minutes, leaving him with only 35 minutes across his other appearances.

Competition for attacking positions has also made his situation more complicated. Brahim is reportedly behind Yan Diomande and Arda Guler in Mourinho's current selection preferences, reducing his chances of securing regular minutes as the season progresses.

With the January transfer window approaching, the possibility of a departure is becoming increasingly relevant if his situation does not improve. AC Milan and Galatasaray have reportedly expressed interest in monitoring his circumstances and could provide potential destinations should he decide to seek a fresh opportunity elsewhere.

Endrick had previously been considered a possible departure candidate because of his desire for more playing time. Brahim's declining involvement has now placed him among the Real Madrid players whose futures could become major talking points during the winter transfer period.

A change of environment could offer the Moroccan midfielder an opportunity to regain regular football, while Real Madrid would need to consider whether retaining him remains beneficial for both parties.