Real Madrid’s star-studded XI ‘to spark major selection shocks’ after Yaham Diomande arrival

Real Madrid are expected to head into the new season with a dramatically reshaped starting XI under Jose Mourinho, with the imminent signing of Yaham Diomande set to intensify competition and leave several high-profile players battling for a place, according to Spanish newspaper Mundo Deportivo.

The Ivorian forward is reportedly close to being officially unveiled by the club after a busy summer recruitment drive, and his pace and direct attacking threat are seen as key additions to Real Madrid’s frontline options.

Mundo Deportivo claims Mourinho already has a preferred core in mind and that his first-choice line-up could contain some notable surprises, given the depth of the squad and the number of established internationals across all positions.

Courtois to remain first choice in goal

In goal, Thibaut Courtois is expected to retain his status as Real Madrid’s undisputed number one. The Belgium international, who has long been the first choice at the Santiago Bernabeu, is tipped to continue in that role, with Andriy Lunin set to act as his primary back-up.

New-look back four and a major defensive omission

The report suggests Mourinho could opt for a back four that features new signing Marc Cucurella on the left side of defence. In central defence, Antonio Rudiger and Eder Militao are seen as the likely preferred pairing, with Denzel Dumfries occupying the right-back position.

That configuration would represent one of the most striking decisions in the predicted line-up, as it would leave Ibrahima Konate – another recent high-profile arrival – outside the starting XI despite his transfer fee and top-level experience. Mundo Deportivo indicates that Mourinho is leaning towards the established partnership of Rudiger and Militao at centre-back, at least in the early stages of the season.

Midfield competition as Bernardo Silva tipped to start on bench

In midfield, Mourinho is expected to build around the energy and balance provided by Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni in the deeper roles. The pair are tipped to operate as the double pivot, offering defensive cover and transition support.

Ahead of them, Jude Bellingham is projected to continue as the team’s main playmaker in the central attacking midfield role. Despite his pedigree and extensive experience, Bernardo Silva is predicted to begin the season on the bench, with the report suggesting that the Portugal international may need to fight his way into the side as the campaign progresses.

Diomande to complete high-powered attacking trio

In attack, Vinicius Junior is expected to keep his place as the starting left winger, maintaining his status as one of Real Madrid’s primary offensive weapons.

The right flank is where Diomande is anticipated to slot in, with the Ivorian operating as a wide forward to stretch defences and provide additional speed in transition. Through the middle, Kylian Mbappe is forecast to lead the line as the central striker, completing what would be one of the most formidable attacking trios in Europe.

Big names face battle for starting places

Under this projected set-up, several major names could find themselves outside Mourinho’s preferred XI. Trent Alexander-Arnold is highlighted as one of the most significant potential casualties, despite having been viewed as a key component of Real Madrid’s new project when he arrived.

Rodrygo is another forward whose starting role appears uncertain, with his future at the club described as still unresolved. The Brazilian may face limited opportunities if the front three of Vinicius Junior, Diomande and Mbappe is confirmed as Mourinho’s go-to attacking combination.

Bernardo Silva and Konate are also expected to encounter fierce competition for regular starting places, as Mourinho looks prepared to make what the report describes as bold decisions in order to achieve balance across his team.

According to Mundo Deportivo, the predicted Real Madrid XI under Mourinho would be:

Goalkeeper: Thibaut Courtois

Defence: Marc Cucurella, Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, Denzel Dumfries

Midfield: Federico Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni, Jude Bellingham

Attack: Vinicius Junior, Yaham Diomande, Kylian Mbappe