Real Madrid: Kylian Mbappé assesses Yan Diomandé’s level

Still adapting to life at Real Madrid, Yan Diomandé can count on Kylian Mbappé’s strong support, with the Frenchman convinced by his talent.

Yan Diomandé is gradually beginning to find his place at Real Madrid. Signed this summer from RB Leipzig in a deal that could reach €140 million including bonuses, the 19-year-old Ivorian winger became the most expensive signing in the history of the Merengue club. It is inevitably a heavy status to carry for a player still in the midst of his adaptation period.

After making his first four appearances as a substitute, Diomandé started the last two rounds of La Liga, against Rayo Vallecano and then Elche. He even registered his first assist in a white shirt against Elche. His current record stands at seven appearances in all competitions, 255 minutes played and one assist.

Mbappé already sees “quality” in Diomandé

Asked by AS about Diomandé’s ability to perform at the level of Real Madrid’s many stars, Kylian Mbappé was particularly clear. For the French forward, the size of his transfer fee should not overshadow the young Ivorian’s age and potential.

“He is at a stage in his journey. It is about building relationships between the players and the team. Diomandé is already part of that. From the moment he arrived at Valdebebas, on the first day, we saw that he had talent. Then people talk a lot during matches, about the €140 million and all that. He is young, he is 19, but the quality is definitely there. We can see it, and he has already shown that he has strengths. We try to protect him, as well as all the players in the squad, because ultimately, we will need everyone. A season is very long and if we want to compete for every trophy, we cannot rely on just an eleven.”

Mbappé’s message is therefore crystal clear: Diomandé is not yet the finished product, but his talent is already recognised within the club. The Frenchman is particularly insistent on the need to give him time and not judge him solely on the fee paid by Madrid.

Mourinho also convinced by his progress

José Mourinho had already sent a similar signal after the victory over Elche. The Portuguese coach praised his winger’s physical and tactical improvement:

“He is making progress. Physically, we can see that he is starting to have more minutes in his legs. He has a very good work rate, he is intelligent and he had a great game.”

These compliments come as Hervé Renard had also defended Yan Diomandé in the face of criticism. The player therefore retains the confidence of both his club and the Ivory Coast national team.

Competition set to intensify further

The situation nevertheless remains demanding. Diomandé has to compete with Vinicius Junior, while Rodrygo’s announced return will further strengthen competition in the attacking wide areas. His advantage lies in his ability to take on opponents, work without the ball and provide verticality—qualities already visible during his previous season at RB Leipzig, which he finished with 13 goals and 10 assists in 36 matches.

Under contract until 2033, Diomandé has the time needed to establish himself over the long term. And judging by Mbappé’s words, the idea in Madrid is clearly not to immediately assess his transfer against the €140 million invested, but to support him as he gradually turns his potential into consistent performances.

Read also: 2026 Ballon d’Or: Kylian Mbappé responds to Lamine Yamal

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

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Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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