Brahim Diaz, who offers equilibriumAs his minutes go up, Brahim continues to surprise. Through injuries, suspensions, and great play, he has won Carlo Ancelotti’s trust and shown he can do well in a number of roles in Ancelotti’s new system, including as the 10 (which he did well in while Jude Bellingham was hurt) or as Rodyrgo’s partner up top. In a double 10, or deeper, as a less involved roamer, or as a higher usage provider when Bellingham isn’t on the field, he’s shown that he can work with Bellingham.

When someone is hurt, I always feel awkward talking about the positive sides. The team has had a lot of illnesses this season, and no one wants any of them. Still, Vinicius and Bellingham’s injuries during the season gave Brahim a chance to show that he’s an important member of the team, and he’s done well in a large sample size.

A defense point of view from Jude BellinghamThere are times when we talk about Jude Bellingham’s opinion for too long. A lot of people, especially those who aren’t from Real Madrid and don’t follow his games as closely, say he’s a striker. They only see how many goals he has. Others see him as a versatile player who can change the game in different ways.

Concerning now, does it really matter? What matters most is that he’s on the field, scoring goals and setting them up, and keeping the defense in check by pressing, tracking, and helping teammates get out of trouble.

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