Diomandé makes first Real Madrid start, Mourinho defends €140M signing

Yan Diomandé made his first start for Real Madrid on Saturday evening at the Bernabéu, during the club’s 5-1 Liga victory over Rayo Vallecano. The 19-year-old Ivorian winger, recruited last summer from Leipzig for €140 million excluding bonuses — the most expensive transfer in the club’s history — played 72 minutes.

His performance did not silence the critics. Former international Jérôme Rothen delivered a harsh verdict: “There’s a world of difference with the other players. I’m not saying he’s the flop of the summer, but he’s going to have to progress fast, very fast. What he showed us in terms of technical accuracy is more than the timid, shy side… I think there are far, far too many shortcomings.” Rothen did, however, temper his remarks by recalling that five matches are not enough to judge a player in whom Real has invested so much.

José Mourinho, meanwhile, chose to protect his player in his press conference. “He has a lot to learn tactically. I see him especially in training, his incredible potential in one-on-one situations, in crossing, in shooting. He’s a strong player. I want to develop young Diomandé because I already know what the rest of the players can offer,” said the Portuguese manager.

Mourinho also stressed the player’s relative inexperience at the highest level of European football, gained “almost entirely last season with Leipzig.” He also highlighted the Ivorian’s versatility, capable of playing in Vinicius’s position on the left wing or on the right flank, offering additional rotation options in an already dense squad.

Diomandé remains under pressure, but for now enjoys the visible support of his manager. The rest of the season will tell whether the most expensive player in Merengue history can justify the investment made.