Yan Diomandé, a cautious start at Real Madrid

Lightning flashes still fruitless

Arriving at the Bernabéu as the most expensive signing in Real Madrid's history, Yan Diomandé knew that the press—and even less the supporters—would not take it easy on him. However, the 19-year-old Ivorian winger has not lost his carefree spirit and proves at every training session that he is still the technical beast that the whole world saw at RB Leipzig. Except he has yet to show it in a competitive match.

Yan Diomandé has played 83 minutes so far, spread over 4 matches in La Liga wearing the Merengue shirt. And although he has been interesting in his movement and runs, with a persistently impressive one-on-one dribbling ability (67% of dribbles successful on average per match – SofaScore), the Elephant is not yet making a decisive impact. No goals or assists yet for Diomandé, who is still trying to fit into the Madrid mold.

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While the first criticisms are beginning to rain down on the Ivorian prodigy, there are indeed extenuating circumstances for Yan Diomandé, who did not have a proper summer preseason with RB Leipzig and joined Real Madrid under José Mourinho after the season had already begun. Moreover, according to the daily AS, the Portuguese coach favors a gradual integration of his new right winger and, for now, intends to respect the hierarchy, with Brahim Diaz and Arda Güler ahead of him.

Yan Diomandé to start against Inter Milan?

The "Special One" does not want to rush Yan Diomandé, whose commitment and seriousness in training he appreciates. But the former Leganés player could shake things up tonight against the Nerazzurri.

According to the aforementioned source, José Mourinho could start Yan Diomandé tonight in the absence of Arda Güler, who is suspended. The 19-year-old winger—nominated for the 2026 Yachine Trophy (Best Young Player of the Year), just like Moroccan Ayyoub Bouaddi—could therefore get more playing time and showcase his skills in a squad where competition is fierce.

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Within the Merengue club, they are protecting the Ivorian diamond, who has the trust of both the staff and the management, who pushed to recruit him this summer despite Leipzig's bids. Now it's up to Diomandé to seize every opportunity to keep sending positive signals and score points in José Mourinho's eyes. Starting, perhaps, tonight with a strong performance against Inter Milan in the very first Champions League match of his career.