Morocco Secures Brahim Diaz: Inside Coach Regragui’s Recruitment Strategy

"I went to see him in Milan for the first time. It was a good first contact. Nothing was closed, and I understood that it was a very difficult decision for him. He appreciated that we understood he needed time to think about the project. He also liked the affection we showed him. It wasn’t just about promising him an important role, but giving him time to adapt to a new team, a new culture. He was born in Spain, he hadn’t often been to Morocco. He came to visit our facilities, he discovered Rabat, Marrakech, Tangier... To feel the country, to make the best choice for his career, but also for his heart," Regragui said in an interview with the Spanish newspaper AS.

The Moroccan coach said he made multiple efforts to convince the Real Madrid striker, who still had the option to join Spain, to represent Morocco. "I traveled to Madrid three times: twice with the Federation president, once alone. What’s beautiful is that he chose Morocco at a time when he could still play for Spain. Some said he chose Morocco because he no longer had an option with La Roja. But that’s not true: he was performing well with Real, was on De la Fuente’s pre-lists. I admit, I was scared. It’s the most difficult decision for a player. The Moroccan people will always be grateful to him," he indicated.

The Moroccan international has managed to find his place within the Atlas Lions in a short time. In ten matches with the Moroccan national team, he has scored 8 goals and provided 2 assists. Regragui also assured that he closely follows his players and their performances at club level: "Yes, I was at the Bernabéu for the Champions League match. I was expecting more minutes for Brahim, of course, but it was a great match. We closely follow our players. We don’t just watch what they do, we also talk to them, show them affection..." An approach that appeals to many binational players who choose to wear the Moroccan jersey.