Why Yan Diomande’s six-minute cameo is already under scrutiny at Real Madrid

Yan Diomande was given only six minutes by Jose Mourinho in Real Madrid’s 4-1 victory over Real Sociedad, prompting early questions about how the new signing will be used at the Spanish club.

The 19-year-old Ivory Coast forward knew he was moving into a different world when he joined Real Madrid. He has arrived in an attack packed with global stars, meaning a regular starting place was never guaranteed.

However, after another brief appearance, some supporters are already examining Mourinho’s decisions over Diomande’s role.

Despite Real Madrid playing two matches in the space of four days, Mourinho selected almost the same starting XI for the meeting with Real Sociedad. Arda Guler played on the right, Jude Bellingham operated as the number 10 and Vinicius Junior started on the left behind Kylian Mbappe.

Diomande had to wait until the closing stages before being introduced. Spanish newspaper AS summed up his evening with the line: “Hardly had time to warm up.”

The Ivorian still made a more encouraging impression in his short spell on the pitch than he had during his subdued debut against Espanyol Barcelona.

Used on the left side on this occasion, Diomande took on defenders, won several duels and produced two impressive pieces of individual skill. Neither his shot nor his cross led to a goal, but his cameo underlined the qualities associated with his game: a direct approach, aggression and a willingness to challenge opponents.

His position was also significant. Diomande had mainly been presented as an option on the right, but Mourinho appears keen to make use of his ability to play on either flank.

That could see him compete with Guler or Rodrygo for opportunities on the right, while also giving Mourinho the option of resting Vinicius Junior on the left.

In theory, that versatility should increase Diomande’s chances of playing. For now, though, opportunities remain limited.

The size of the transfer fee has inevitably intensified the focus on every decision Mourinho makes, and some supporters are already expressing concern.

“I believe Mourinho really did not ask the club to sign Diomande,” one user wrote on X, referring to comments from Mourinho in which he said he had not chosen to recruit the Ivory Coast international.

Another supporter posted: “I have a strong feeling that this season will be difficult for my brother Yan Diomande.”

Others urged patience, with one writing: “What Mourinho is doing for Diomande is very good, he is integrating him gradually. There is no need to rush.”

The debate is still at a very early stage. The season has only just begun, and Diomande is adapting to a club where competition for places is exceptionally intense.

Guler enjoyed an excellent pre-season and currently deserves his place in the team, leaving Mourinho with little reason to immediately alter his preferred order. The transfer fee has largely driven the impatience, as supporters naturally expect a player signed for a substantial sum to feature quickly.

Diomande should still receive further chances. The season is long enough for injuries, suspensions and rotation to change the pecking order, while his ability to operate on both wings may open more than one route into the team.

His task now is to make the most of every minute he is given.