Much of the footballing world took note of Spain's 6-0 Nations League drubbing of World Cup finalist Croatia earlier in the week, including a Real Madrid newcomer who has eyes on an international switch.
"Yes, I did see it and of course I dream of Luis Enrique's call," Los Blancos' newly minted No. 7 Mariano Diaz admitted, per Spanish outlet AS.
Born in Premia de Mar on the Iberian Peninsula, Mariano featured in just one match for CONCACAF minnow Dominican Republic, whom he qualifies for through his mother. Fortunately for the 25-year-old striker, his maiden international appearance against Haiti in 2013 was an international friendly, opening the door for a potential permanent La Roja switch.
Swapping allegiances is only half the battle for Mariano, with Diego Costa, Iago Aspas, Rodrigo, and World Cup snub Alvaro Moratapresumably ahead of him in Enrique's pecking order.
A product of Real's famed La Fabrica youth set-up, Mariano returns to the Spanish capital a summer after failing to secure a wealth of first-team opportunities, prompting a €8-million move to Lyon. Mariano, who assumes the No. 7 shirt from Cristiano Ronaldo, doesn't appear discouraged by the boots he's been asked to help fill.
"It's pressure to carry that number, but others have told me that I should not have chosen it. I've had everything (said to me)," Mariano offered. "It was a number that was free and to me it is a number that I like. It's a personal challenge and I'm happy to wear the number that has been worn by many stars, like Amancio (Amaro), Juanito, (Emilio) Butragueno, Raul, and Cristiano, of course."
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