Yan Diomande seals Real Madrid move and thanks RB Leipzig for making his dream possible

Ivory Coast winger Yan Diomande has said joining Real Madrid fulfils a childhood ambition, while thanking RB Leipzig for helping him reach the highest level of the game.

Real Madrid announced on Thursday evening that they had completed the signing of Diomande on a long-term contract running until the summer of 2033.

The player delivered his farewell message to RB Leipzig supporters in a video shared by the German club’s account on X. Spanish newspaper AS also published the message.

“I am extremely grateful to RB Leipzig. The club and its management believed in me a year ago, even though I had only played a few matches as a professional. They gave me their trust and the opportunity to prove my abilities at the highest level,” said Diomande.

The winger said his time at Leipzig had allowed him to establish himself in one of Europe’s leading leagues and earn recognition with his national team.

“I managed to make my mark in one of the best leagues in Europe, secure my place in the Ivory Coast national team and represent my country on the biggest stage in world football, the World Cup,” he added.

“None of that would have happened without Leipzig, and for that reason I will always remain grateful to the club.”

Diomande also expressed his appreciation to Leipzig’s leadership for enabling his transfer to Real Madrid, despite the fact that his contract with the German club was still active.

“Moving to Real Madrid is my childhood dream come true. I am especially grateful to the Leipzig management because they made this transfer possible, even though my contract with the club was still valid,” he said.

The player reserved particular praise for the supporters, thanking them for their encouragement from the beginning of his time at the club.

“To the fans, thank you for your incredible support from the very first moment. Your passion, your belief in me and your constant encouragement mean more to me than words can describe,” Diomande said.

“I will always be grateful for the love you have shown me.”

Diomande acknowledged that leaving Leipzig would be difficult but said he was looking forward to the next stage of his career in Madrid.

“Today begins a new chapter in my career. Leaving is never easy, but I am excited about what lies ahead, and I will always remember my time at Leipzig with pride,” he said.

“This club will always have a special place in my heart, and I will continue to follow its progress closely. And who knows? Perhaps we will meet again one day in the Champions League.”

He ended his message by saying: “Thank you for everything.”