The news has surprised many in the world of soccer. After years without being part of Real Madrid, Mariano Díaz could return to set foot in Santiago Bernabéu, but this time as a rival.
His possible signing by Alavés will bring him back to the elite and to the big stages. Dani Carvajal, who played alongside him at Madrid, can't believe it.
Mariano Díaz's difficult path
Mariano Díaz left Real Madrid two years ago for Sevilla, seeking to relaunch his career after a complicated period. At Olympique de Lyon, he had shined, showing an outstanding goal-scoring level. There, he scored 21 goals in 48 matches, a performance that excited many.
But in Sevilla, he didn't find his best form. He didn't score a single goal all season and ended up without a team since July 2024. This situation cast doubt on his future in professional soccer.
The unexpected opportunity at Alavés
This summer, everything changed for Mariano. Alavés opened the doors for him to join preseason and show his level. Chacho Coudet, coach of the Basque club, was impressed with his performance and is willing to give him a new opportunity.
Although the signing hasn't been made official yet, everything indicates that Mariano will sign for two seasons with Alavés. This way, he will face Real Madrid again in LaLiga. Sergio Fernández, sporting director of Alavés, keeps cautious, but admits they're very excited about the addition.
Dani Carvajal's perspective
Carvajal, who shared a locker room with Mariano at Madrid, is surprised. The full-back knows the striker's potential and knows how difficult his path has been. That Mariano will play again at Bernabéu, even as a rival, is something he didn't expect.
For Carvajal, this return is not only a reflection of Mariano's resilience, but also an opportunity to show he still has soccer to offer. Experience and seniority may be his best weapon in this new stage.
Last opportunity for Mariano?
At 32 years old, Mariano is at a key point in his career. This chance with Alavés may be his last great opportunity to redeem himself in professional soccer.
If he manages to recover the level he showed in France, he could surprise many. If not, his future seems complicated. The Spanish-Dominican striker must take advantage of this opportunity to show he still has a hunger for goals and soccer.