Real Madrid midfielder Brahim Diaz says he appreciates the loan he had with AC Milan.

Diaz has been outstanding for Real this season, having returned from a long-term loan with Milan last year.

He told Esquire: “I didn’t imagine anything, honestly. I felt very comfortable at Milan, we did great things and the truth is that I am very grateful to the club, I always say it.

“Regarding Real Madrid, I had no expectations because in the end it is the best club in the world and you have to give your best day after day. I don’t know if I’m getting ahead of myself or not, but the truth is that so far it’s been a very good season from everyone and we need to continue like this. We have to score, make assists, win titles, which in the end is the most important thing in this great club.”

Asked if Milan had changed him, Diaz said: “They are two different moments. I was young at the time and, although obviously I came from a big club like Manchester City, but I had less experience, I was a kid who wanted to establish himself and at that moment things didn’t go as they should for various reasons. But all the work pays off in the end and that’s what happened to me.

“I returned to Real Madrid more mature, with more experience, but with the same desire to win.”