Real Madrid: Yan Diomande’s impact puts Vinicius Junior and other starters under pressure

Yan Diomande is beginning to force his way into the Real Madrid conversation after another influential performance, despite Sunday’s 2-1 derby defeat by Atletico.

The Cote d’Ivoire international was criticised only a few weeks ago for appearing too quiet in relation to the 125 M€ Real Madrid paid for him. However, a series of encouraging moments has started to change the view of the club’s supporters and Madrid-based media.

After providing an assist against Elche and attracting attention by kissing the Real Madrid badge, Diomande again impressed at the weekend. The former Leipzig player has become the most expensive African footballer in history, but his early performances had not always matched the expectations created by his transfer fee.

Diomande came on for Vinicius Junior in the 54th minute, shortly after Dean Huijsen was sent off. Real Madrid were already facing a difficult situation, reduced to 10 players and two goals behind, but the Ivorian quickly offered one of the few attacking outlets available to his side.

Operating on the left, he repeatedly looked to run at Atletico’s defence and attack the space behind it. He also created one of Real Madrid’s best chances, holding off his marker before seeing his effort stopped by Jan Oblak.

That contribution has prompted fresh debate over whether Diomande should be included in the starting XI more regularly. Speaking on Cadena SER, Jesus Gallego urged Jose Mourinho to make a significant change.

“You have to take one of the guys at the top out and put Diomande in,” he said, adding that the manager needed to “do something” and might even have to “change the system”.

The comments underline how quickly perceptions have shifted around the Ivorian. Only a few weeks ago, his first start had increased doubts about whether he was adapting successfully to life at Real Madrid. Now, it is established players who are beginning to feel his pressure.

Any comparison with Vinicius Junior must be treated carefully. The Brazilian played in a tight match with both teams at full strength, whereas Diomande entered when Real Madrid had to chase the game despite being a player down.

Even so, Diomande supplied qualities Real Madrid had been missing: spontaneity, direct running and an immediate willingness to challenge his opponent. His approach is different from that of other attacking players who are more inclined to move inside.

Mourinho recently described Diomande as possessing “great potential”, while also highlighting his limited experience at the highest level of European football. The Portuguese manager had already publicly endorsed introducing his Ivorian signing gradually.

But if Diomande continues to make such an impact from the bench, Mourinho may not be able to use him as a substitute indefinitely. The player has recovered much of the credit he lost earlier this month.

To genuinely alter the pecking order, though, he must now deliver the same influence over longer periods.