Rothen says Diomande’s balance gives him the edge over Vinicius at Real Madrid

Jerome Rothen believes Vinicius Junior’s suspension has created an unexpected opportunity for Real Madrid, allowing Ya​n Diomande to demonstrate his ability and establish himself in the club’s plans.

The former Paris Saint-Germain and France midfielder told Tribuna that the Brazilian’s absence had become “a blessing in disguise”. Diomande, he said, had taken his chance fully, reclaimed the left-wing position and developed into an influential member of the team.

Diomande makes the most of his chance

Rothen said Diomande was now receiving regular playing time and had earned the confidence of manager Jose Mourinho. The player had struggled at the start of the season, partly because of the pressure created by his transfer fee and partly because of uncertainty over his role on the pitch.

Operating from the left, however, has given Diomande greater freedom. Rothen highlighted Mourinho’s demands that he press opponents and track back to support the defence, while also using his ability to carry the ball forward and move into central areas.

Those responsibilities, Rothen argued, help Real Madrid maintain balance in midfield and make Diomande an important part of the side’s overall structure.

Real Madrid are scheduled to face AEK Athens in the UEFA Champions League on 04 November 2026 before meeting Valencia in La Liga on 07 November 2026.

Mbappe’s defensive work has improved

Rothen also discussed the defensive contribution of Real Madrid’s attacking players. He said the team’s approach had changed from the period when Kylian Mbappe and Vinicius were contributing less without the ball.

According to Rothen, Mbappe is now working harder defensively, while Diomande provides the balance Real Madrid need through his movement and tactical discipline.

The former France international was then asked whether Vinicius had lost his place in the starting line-up. He agreed, although he stressed that Diomande would need to maintain his current level to prove he deserved to remain in the team.

“For me, yes, Vinicius has lost his place,” Rothen said. “Diomande will have to defend his position, but even if he is slightly less gifted technically, the work he does in terms of positioning and providing balance to the team gives him a two-step advantage over Vinicius.”

Rothen’s comparison focused on tactical commitment and the collective contribution each player makes. While acknowledging that Vinicius is the more gifted player technically, he believes Diomande’s work rate, positioning and ability to give the team greater balance currently put him ahead in Mourinho’s selection choices.