Manchester City sold Brahim Diaz to Real Madrid back in 2019 – after the Citizens were effectively left with no other option.
The Spaniard’s contract at the Etihad Stadium was months away from expiring, leading Manchester City to sanction a £15m move to Real Madrid in January 2019.
That deal had since looked like very strong business for the treble winners as the 24-year-old struggled to shine at Real Madrid, and also on loan at AC Milan.
Now – however – Brahim Diaz is starting to show why he was at Manchester City in the first place…
Brahim Diaz now shining for Real Madrid
Well, the Spain international is now shining at the highest level.
Diaz has started to receive more opportunities at Real Madrid after Marco Asensio left for PSG – and he is taking his chance with both hands.
The Malaga-born attacker has become an important player for the Spanish giants, scoring three goals while also providing two assists in 14 appearances so far this season, including outings in the UEFA Champions League.
Carlo Ancelotti is – unsurprisingly – delighted with how Diaz is performing.
As quoted by Fabrizio Romano, the Italian said: “I am very happy with him. His time in Milan was very useful for him. His defensive contribution is good, he is amazing for the tactical side and he is stronger physically.”
Manchester City could still benefit from Brahim Diaz performances
While Real Madrid are the ones currently benefitting from Diaz’s displays, Manchester City could also get something from it.
The Citizens negotiated a 15% sell-on clause in the agreement with Los Blancos back in January 2019, so if the Real Madrid No.21 ends up earning a big money move elsewhere, Manchester City should receive a tidy chunk of cash.
Hilariously – as detailed by the BBC – Manchester City also negotiated a 40% cut if Real Madrid sell Diaz to Manchester United.
Smart.
While some Manchester City fans may regret the sale of Diaz, his exit seems to have worked out for all parties, as the Citizens still managed to win the treble without his talents.
