Real Madrid’s Yan Diomande criticised after TikTok appearance following derby defeat

Yan Diomande has come under fire in Spain after appearing on a TikTok livestream just hours after Real Madrid’s 2-1 defeat by Atletico Madrid.

The Ivory Coast winger, who joined Real Madrid from Leipzig for 140m euros during the summer transfer window, was seen dancing during the broadcast. His decision to appear online so soon after the capital derby prompted a strong reaction from supporters and Spanish media.

Diomande has faced increasing pressure since completing his move to the Spanish club, with the size of the fee making him a focus of attention from the moment he made his debut. His performance against Atletico Madrid was nevertheless considered a positive one, particularly as Vinicius Junior continues to receive criticism for his form on the left wing.

During the livestream, Diomande responded to a question about his transfer fee by saying: “They will always criticise us, but we keep improving.”

Music linked to the 140m-euro cost of his move was also played during the broadcast. El Chiringuito TV shared footage of the appearance on 21 September 2026, accompanying it with the words: “140 million euros” and “They will always come to criticise us… We just keep improving.”

The timing and tone of the video led to an immediate backlash. Several Real Madrid supporters argued that dancing on TikTok after losing the derby was inappropriate, especially given the scrutiny surrounding the player because of his record transfer fee.

One fan commented: “Honestly, I cannot believe that nobody tells this young man what he is doing by posting a video on TikTok after losing the derby, as if he does not care about it at all.”

Another supporter compared Diomande’s behaviour with that of Lamine Yamal after Barcelona defeats. The comparison reflected the growing attention on the Ivory Coast international, who is under pressure to justify both the cost of his transfer and the significant expectations placed on him since arriving at Real Madrid.

Diomande’s appearance came at a particularly sensitive time for the winger. Although Real Madrid were beaten by their city rivals, his individual display offered some encouragement, while criticism of Vinicius Junior’s performances has continued to draw attention to the club’s options on the left side.

The livestream has now added an off-field issue to the demands facing Diomande as he adapts to life at Real Madrid. His comments suggested confidence that the team is continuing to improve, but the reaction showed the level of scrutiny attached to a player signed for 140m euros.