Real Madrid are experimenting with a new ‘false 9’

Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid (Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)
Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid (Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images) /
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Real Madrid may have found a good role for Brahim Diaz.

As talented as Brahim Diaz is, the Real Madrid youngster has found it difficult to obtain regular playing time at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The former Manchester City man flashed his talent at the end of the 2018-2019 season for Los Blancos with a goal and an assist. He also scored in the Copa del Rey this season.

But overall, Brahim has been a backup. He’s played just 23 minutes in La Liga this season and 17 in the Champions League, making a mere two substitute appearances across both competitions.

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There could be new opportunity for Brahim to play in 2019-2020 when the season resumes, though.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Brahim has been used as a “False 9” in training when playing in an attacking trio with Vinicius Junior and Rodrygo Goes in the lineup.

Since Rodrygo will likely play for Castilla when the season returns, this lineup won’t be in the rotation frequently. But since Real will be playing every three days when La Liga returns, Brahim could receive some chances.

Real Madrid won’t have Luka Jovic when football resumes, as he fractured his foot during quarantine.

Mariano Diaz should get chances behind Karim Benzema, but there’s plenty of room for Brahim, who can play on the wing or up front.

The 20-year-old has the traits to be an interesting “False 9” option. He can score or assist, he works hard, and he has plenty of quickness and speed up front.

Madridistas have been waiting for Brahim to get more opportunities, and they cheer for him to get chances off the bench. This role could be a way for Brahim to make an impression. He could have left on loan in the summer transfer window but wanted to stay to prove himself at Real.

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While Brahim will likely have to leave on loan in 2020-2021, he may still have an opportunity to play for Los Blancos this season.