‘He’s going to grow’ – Mourinho urges patience with Real Madrid new signing Yan Diomande

Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has urged patience with new signing Yan Diomande after the highly rated Ivory Coast winger made another substitute appearance without producing the immediate impact expected of a €125 million arrival.

The 19-year-old joined Madrid from RB Leipzig earlier this month for a reported €125 million ($146 million), arriving with a reputation built on an impressive Bundesliga campaign and a standout World Cup showing with Ivory Coast.

However, Diomande is yet to establish himself in Mourinho’s starting XI, featuring from the bench in each of Madrid’s opening three La Liga matches.

Mourinho asks for time

Diomande was introduced again on Sunday as Madrid cruised to a 4-0 victory over Malaga, their third consecutive league win to begin the season.

While the teenager has yet to reproduce the attacking influence that made him one of Europe’s most sought-after young players, Mourinho believes there is no reason to rush his development.

“He needs to go little by little,” Mourinho said after the victory.

“He’s played 20, 15, or 30 minutes in the three matches so far. He works well and a lot. He’s humble and eager to learn and work. He listens to me and to his teammates. He’s going to grow.”

The Portuguese tactician also dismissed the pressure that comes with Diomande’s enormous transfer fee, insisting his assessment is based on the player’s age and potential rather than the amount Madrid paid Leipzig.

“Patience,” Mourinho said. “Usually, when people talk about such a huge figure, they expect someone who comes in and immediately takes the world by storm. That’s not the case. He’s very young, but he has incredible potential. Take it easy, patience.”

Huge expectations on teenager

Diomande enjoyed a breakthrough campaign in Germany last season, scoring 12 goals and providing nine assists in 33 Bundesliga appearances for Leipzig.

His performances also carried into the international stage, where he impressed for Ivory Coast at the World Cup before the Elephants were eliminated by Norway in the round of 32.

Madrid will face Real Betis on Friday before turning their attention to the Champions League, with Inter Milan visiting on September 8.