Real Madrid: Yan Diomandé set to start against Espanyol

The Ivorian winger is expected to feature on the right in José Mourinho’s first official starting eleven

Europe Today at 09:00

Add Foot Africa on Google

Real Madrid: Yan Diomandé set to start against Espanyol

As the most expensive signing in Madrid's history, Yan Diomandé could make his debut right away against Espanyol in José Mourinho’s starting eleven.

A new era is taking shape at Real Madrid. For his first official match since returning, José Mourinho will take on Espanyol Barcelona this Saturday at 9:30pm at the RCDE Stadium. According to the probable lineup published by AS, Yan Diomandé is expected to start on the right wing for this La Liga opener.

Signed from RB Leipzig in a deal that could reach €140 million, including €115 million guaranteed, the 19-year-old winger has signed until June 2033. Now wearing the number 25 shirt, he could be thrown straight into an attacking quartet alongside Arda Güler, Vinicius Junior, and Kylian Mbappé.

Also read: Premier League: Hull City stun Manchester United at halftime (2-0)

A return that justifies Madrid’s investment

Diomandé is coming off a standout debut season in Germany: 13 goals and 10 assists in 36 matches across all competitions. In the Bundesliga, the Ivory Coast international racked up 12 goals and eight assists in 33 appearances, totaling 20 goal contributions. These performances earned him the league’s Young Player of the Year award.

His cameo against Schalke also impressed Mourinho. In just 29 minutes, Diomandé recovered five balls, showing a defensive commitment perfectly suited to the Portuguese manager’s demands. The player, who states he feels no pressure, now appears to be in pole position to start. However, the starting lineup will only be officially confirmed when the team sheet is released, roughly an hour before Real Madrid’s season opener.