Luis Figo tells Real Madrid fans to stay calm over Yan Diomande’s slow start

Real Madrid legend Luis Figo has urged supporters to remain patient with Yan Diomande, insisting the highly rated Ivory Coast international needs time to adapt to life at the Spanish giants.

Diomande completed a blockbuster move from RB Leipzig to Real Madrid during the summer, with the deal potentially rising to £120 million (€140m) if all the agreed add-ons are triggered.

The transfer represented a significant profit for Leipzig, who paid around €20m for the teenager in 2025.

At just 19, Diomande has been gradually introduced into Real Madrid’s first-team setup, with manager Jose Mourinho taking a measured approach to his integration.

The winger has made seven LaLiga appearances so far but has started only two of those matches.

That limited involvement has prompted some sections of the Real Madrid fanbase to question the pace of his development, particularly given the size of the investment in the youngster.

Figo, however, believes there is little reason for concern and has backed Diomande to become increasingly influential as he settles into his new surroundings.

Figo calls for patience

The former Real Madrid star stressed that adapting to the demands of the Spanish giants is different from playing for another club.

“It’s normal for him to take it step by step. There’s a certain amount of time needed to adapt. Playing for Real Madrid isn’t the same as playing for another team.

“He’s already adapting to what Real Madrid is all about and improving. I think he’ll contribute more in the upcoming matches and will become more prominent.”

Diomande arrived in Madrid with considerable expectations after an impressive spell at Leipzig, but his transition to the Santiago Bernabeu has been handled cautiously.

Mourinho has opted against immediately placing the full weight of expectation on the teenager, allowing him to gradually adjust to the technical, tactical and physical demands of LaLiga.

His two starts among seven league appearances underline that approach, with the Portuguese coach seemingly prioritising Diomande’s long-term development over an immediate starring role.

Diomande has time to make his mark

Figo’s comments offer reassurance that the youngster’s limited starting opportunities should not necessarily be viewed as a setback.

The former Ballon d’Or winner believes Diomande is already adapting to Real Madrid’s expectations and expects his influence to grow during the campaign.

The Ivory Coast star will now have another opportunity to continue his development when Real Madrid return to action following the FIFA international break.

Madrid are scheduled to host Villarreal on October 10, with Diomande hoping to earn another appearance as he continues his introduction to life at one of football’s biggest clubs.