Vinicius injury gives Diomande chance to stake Real Madrid claim

Diomande could be handed a defining opportunity at Real Madrid after Vinicius Junior’s expected absence from the clasico opened the door for the Ivorian to move into Jose Mourinho’s first-team plans.

The forward strengthened his case with an impressive display against Villarreal, where he scored his long-awaited first goal and demonstrated the pace, dribbling ability and movement needed to add another dimension to Real Madrid’s attack.

Speaking to Real Madrid’s television channel, Diomande said he had been waiting impatiently to score his first goal. He explained that he chose to control the ball, turn and shoot quickly, a decision which finally produced the moment he had been hoping for, according to Spanish newspaper AS.

His performance was not an isolated success. Diomande went into the Villarreal match averaging 4.86 successful dribbles per game and has also shown a strong ability to win attacking duels.

Against Villarreal, he repeatedly unsettled the defence with his movement and close control. He created space and opportunities for Kylian Mbappe, giving Real Madrid greater variety in attack and making their forward play more difficult to predict.

Mourinho must now decide how best to use those qualities as the club’s schedule moves on. Attention will turn first to the Champions League meeting with Roma, when Vinicius will be available, before Real Madrid face Sevilla and the clasico.

That leaves the manager with a significant selection decision. Diomande could be given another opportunity against Sevilla, or be considered for a starting role on the left wing in the clasico if Vinicius is unavailable.

Diomande said he was extremely excited about playing in the Champions League, describing participation in the competition as a dream for every child. He also expressed his gratitude at being able to experience it in a Real Madrid shirt.

The uncertainty surrounding Vinicius’ fitness has therefore created an opening for a player who had largely been waiting for his chance. Diomande’s display against Villarreal showed he can offer more than a temporary replacement, with his pace and direct running providing different attacking solutions.

His next task is to convince Mourinho that he deserves a regular place in the starting line-up, even when Real Madrid’s Brazilian forward returns.