Real Madrid: 5 players with a point to prove before 2020-21 ends

ST Mariano Diaz

In the span of a year, Mariano Diaz has went from “hero” to “zero”. The man who once scored more than 20 goals in a campaign for Lyon has struck just once this season. Mariano has not scored since the Nov. 21 draw with Villarreal, and he’s received huge criticisms from the fanbase for his atrocious display in the knockout loss to Alcoyano in the Copa del Rey.

So when was Mariana a hero? When he scored the game-sealing goal in last season’s second Clasico. But all of that goodwill has now been wasted. Mariano has pushed to remain with Real Madrid despite receiving loan offers. His desire is clear. But his production is simply not good enough.

Mariano is almost certainly going to leave this summer. Right after Gareth Bale, he is near the top of Real’s transfer exit list. Yet he could receive a start soon if Real Madrid are forced to rest the overworked Karim Benzema.

There is honestly little reason for Madridistas to have confidence in Mariano. The 27-year-old seems like a great, hard-working guy. But he’s just not a good fit for Madrid. He can’t operate between the lines or be creative in any way. Mariano struggles in crowded areas. His chances are dwindling, but whenever Mariano plays, you can tell he’s willing to put it all on the line to prove himself to the club.