Yan Diomandé: "I feel no pressure"

Yan Diomandé shared his first impressions after joining Real Madrid. Signed this summer from RB Leipzig for €125 million, the young Ivorian international doesn't seem at all daunted by the massive fee the Spanish club invested in him.

Diomandé refuses to dwell on his price tag

Diomandé's transfer made history at Real Madrid. With a fee of €125 million, he is currently the club's second most expensive signing ever, trailing only Jude Bellingham. The total could even climb to €140 million with €15 million in bonuses, potentially putting the Ivorian at the top of the club’s all-time transfer list.

In an interview with SportyTV, Yan Diomandé made it clear that the financial pressure barely affects him, also recalling the emotion he felt when he first learned of Real Madrid’s interest.

The amount spent on me? Zero pressure. They spent that much because the club believes in me, so why should I be afraid? When Real Madrid calls, you just can't say no. I couldn't even sleep.

Cristiano Ronaldo as a role model, Mourinho as a source of motivation

The new Madrid forward also spoke about Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he considers his idol. He explained that he looks at photos of the Real Madrid legend when he arrives for training sessions:

Cristiano Ronaldo is my idol. The swagger, the aura... When I go to training, I look at his pictures—those images say it all. I’m proud to play for the same club as my idol.

The Ivorian is also particularly excited about the prospect of working with José Mourinho:

When you play for José Mourinho, you want to DIE for him.

His first official match in his new colors is scheduled for Saturday, August 22, as LaLiga kicks off against Espanyol Barcelona. A decisive debut performance could quickly cement the faith the club has placed in him.

Aliou Toundé |

Editorfr

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