Everything could have changed. Brahim Díaz now wears Real Madrid's jersey and is thriving in the white team, feeling important and even scoring in the Champions League. However, his career could have been completely different, having had everything set to wear Barça's jersey on two occasions. We are not the ones saying it; it was revealed by the former coordinator-director of FC Barcelona's Youth Soccer, Albert Puig.
In statements to Jijantes, Albert Puig was blunt about Brahim Díaz's arrival at Barça that didn't happen. This occurred on two occasions. The first was when the Spanish-Moroccan was 12 years old: he arrived in the capital of Catalonia and had a small training session with players of the time, such as Iniesta. He left delighted and his arrival in the city of Barcelona was agreed upon with his family through a contract.
However, with everything settled, Brahim Díaz's family began to show distance a few months after what happened. There was a reason for everything: Manchester City had arrived with a much better proposal. Not only economically, but also for the family: a free townhouse, private school for his sisters, and a higher salary.
Considering these unbelievable conditions, Barça decided to break a contract that was already signed, not putting any obstacles for Brahim Díaz and his family.
Albert Puig Talks About Brahim Díaz: "He Came For..."
In this regard, Brahim Díaz was very grateful to Barça and his arrival was considered again years later. He was standing out in Manchester City's youth academy and they tried once more to finalize his signing. With Albert Puig at the helm, the English accepted his departure, but with one condition: 300,000 euros plus variables had to be paid.
As it was a signing involving money, the former coordinator-director of Barça's Youth Soccer had to consult with a superior. In this case, we are talking about the sporting director of the time, whose name has not been revealed. He saw the price as excessive for the Spanish-Moroccan, rejecting Brahim Díaz's signing.
In 2019, Real Madrid didn't miss their chance. Despite his contract ending in six months, they immediately took Brahim Díaz for 17 million euros. Between loans to other teams, he didn't arrive at Bernabéu until 2023, where he is now standing out.
Brahim Díaz's value has already surpassed 40 million euros, and Barça couldn't be more upset. It was a great signing that slipped away twice...