Brahim’s Rise: A Football Prodigy Embraces His Moroccan Heritage

After Brahim’s pivotal role in Morocco’s victory over Cameroon in the AFCON quarter-finals, where he scored his fifth goal in as many appearances, coach Walid Regragui remarked, “Brahim can be the best player in the world if he wishes to be.”

While some may view this statement as an exaggeration, it resonates with those who witnessed Brahim’s prodigious talent during his formative years. Nicknamed ‘The Messi of Malaga,’ Pep Guardiola was eager to secure Brahim’s signature while at Barcelona, even giving him a personalized tour of Camp Nou alongside the legendary Lionel Messi.

Ultimately, the 16-year-old joined Manchester City, where Guardiola handed him his professional debut in a League Cup match against Swansea City in September 2016. Guardiola was understandably disheartened when City had to sell Brahim to Real Madrid in January 2019, as he was unwilling to extend a contract that was nearing its end. “Going to Real Madrid is not a bad step,” Guardiola commented, though he cautiously hoped Brahim would receive the playing time he missed at City.

Guardiola’s concerns proved valid, as Brahim experienced limited first-team opportunities during his initial seasons at the Bernabeu. After a promising three-year loan at AC Milan, returning to Real Madrid seemed ill-advised, which was later confirmed by his circumstances. Despite this, Brahim showcased his development by netting 12 goals across all competitions in his first season under Carlo Ancelotti. However, he remained largely a supporting player, and his involvement diminished further after Xabi Alonso’s appointment last summer.

If his move to Madrid was questionable, his decision to represent Morocco proved to be a masterstroke. After debuting for Spain in June 2021 and scoring what seemed to be the first of many goals, Brahim never played for La Roja again. Frustrated by the lack of opportunities, he switched allegiance to Morocco in March 2024, responding to the Royal Moroccan Football Federation’s ongoing appeals and the support from local politicians.

“I feel 100% Spanish and 100% Moroccan,” Brahim said in an interview with Cadena SER. “I grew up in Spain, but I have Moroccan roots. I chose with my heart, and I’m grateful for the opportunity Morocco has given me. I have no regrets about my decision.”

His integration into the Moroccan national team was seamless, aided by the support of fellow Madrid-born captain Achraf Hakimi. “We welcomed Brahim like a brother,” said the Paris Saint-Germain right-back, with Brahim frequently referring to The Atlas Lions as one big family. “I feel at home,” he expressed after Morocco’s AFCON opener against Comoros. “I want to give my all when representing Morocco.”

Brahim’s impact has been profound, as he emerged as the top scorer during AFCON qualifying, netting seven goals in just four matches. His performance in the tournament has been remarkable, despite limited playing time at Real Madrid prior to the event. Former Morocco midfielder Mustapha El Haddaoui noted, “I didn’t expect him to perform at this level with limited rhythm from club football. But Brahim seems unfazed.”

Throughout the tournament, Brahim has scored Morocco’s opener or solitary goal in four of his six AFCON appearances. Concerns have arisen regarding Morocco’s reliance on him; however, Regragui remains optimistic, stating, “If we depend on Brahim and he brings home the AFCON trophy, then I will be the happiest man in Morocco.”

AFCON has become a personal achievement for Brahim, who has navigated a tumultuous career path. While Hakimi remains the team’s undisputed leader, Brahim has taken on a prominent role, becoming a central figure in the tournament, as Regragui describes him as having “the X factor.”

Beyond his on-field brilliance, what has impressed Regragui most is Brahim’s developed mentality. “What he did against Cameroon was run, fight, and maintain possession,” the coach elaborated. “This sets a crucial example for his teammates, boosting the team’s morale when they see their best player working so diligently.”

Regragui concluded, “He now understands what it means to have Moroccan blood.”

While it remains to be seen whether Brahim will ascend to the status of the world’s best player with Madrid, it is clear that Morocco has already played a significant role in enhancing his prowess.