Ex-Real Madrid attacker nears La Liga return to end year-long absence from football

According to Marca, Diaz is set to sign a two-year contract with Alaves, bringing an end to his year-long absence from club football. The Dominican striker, formerly of Real Madrid and Sevilla, has been training with Alaves' first team during pre-season. His performances in training have impressed coach Eduardo Coudet, and a formal announcement of his signing is expected imminently. Mariano has been without a club since leaving Sevilla in June 2024 but maintained fitness and scored for the Dominican Republic in a friendly against Puerto Rico in March 2025. The move follows significant squad changes at Alaves, including departures in their forward line.

Alaves' squad rebuild under Sergio Fernandez has created opportunities for forwards, especially after losing Joaquin Panichelli and Kike García, and with Asier Villalibre anticipated to depart on loan. Mariano, 31, offers top-flight and international experience at a crucial time for the Basque side, who finished 15th in La Liga last season. Alaves expects Mariano to provide competition and depth, mainly partnering or rotating with Toni Martínez up front. Mariano's physical condition stood out during his trial, addressing prior doubts over his sharpness after a full season without club football.

Diaz scored his first goal in over 10 months during a Dominican Republic win against Puerto Rico in March 2025, marking a rare high since his productive spell at Lyon in 2017–18, when he netted 21 goals in 48 appearances.

The official confirmation of Mariano’s signing could arrive within days. He will likely be registered for the new La Liga season and compete for minutes as Alaves seeks to bolster attacking options before the campaign kicks off. Upcoming fixtures will determine how quickly he re-adapts to league competition after a lengthy absence. If successful, Mariano could secure a starting role and help stabilise Alaves' offensive output in the 2025–26 season.