At Real Madrid, it's no longer surprising that key players are starting to look fondly toward the exit. Xabi Alonso's arrival and his commitment to a new era have accelerated decisions that had been on hold.
Among them, there's one that's about to be finalized in the coming hours: Brahim Díaz's farewell. Although he renewed his contract a year ago, the Málaga-born footballer feels that his role in the new project has been relegated, and he's not willing to stay on the bench for another season.
Brahim doesn't want to be a substitute in the new Madrid
The emergence of Arda Güler and Gonzalo, Bellingham's influence, Mastantuono's arrival, and the return of players like Endrick or Rodrygo in similar positions block his path.
Only Rodrygo's departure could slow Real Madrid's intention to facilitate his exit. But it doesn't seem likely that Rodrygo will end up leaving.
Last season, he delivered every time he was given the opportunity, but it wasn't enough to earn Carlo Ancelotti's trust. Now, with Xabi Alonso, things don't look any better.
That's why he has made a bold decision: to leave Real Madrid to feel important again. He'll do so at a destination he already knows and where he was happy.
Milan, his home: he returns to San Siro
Brahim will return to AC Milan. The deal is already closed and, according to sources from the Italian club, the move will become official in the coming days.
The Andalusian footballer already played two seasons at San Siro, on loan, and left a great impression. Milan also wanted him back last summer, but Madrid preferred to keep him. Now, the scenario has changed and the white club is giving the green light to his departure.
It'll be a grand return, as he won't be alone. He'll reunite with Luka Modric, who has also finalized his transfer to Milan after saying goodbye to Bernabéu. Two very classy players who will share a locker room again.
Brahim also broke with Spain
At the time, Brahim had already given up on the Spanish national team after realizing that Luis de la Fuente didn't really count on him. He took the step to become a Moroccan national, where he has indeed been promised a leading role. It all comes down to the same idea: to feel important, to be a starter, and not to live in the shadow of others.
Italy offers him that opportunity. At Milan, he'll have minutes, trust, and the respect he believes he deserves. He was clear about it: rather than staying in Madrid watching matches from the bench, he prefers to return to a place where he felt like a footballer.