Yan Diomande’s Real Madrid rise puts Vinicius Junior’s starting place under pressure

Yan Diomande is strengthening his claim for a regular starting place at Real Madrid after another outstanding performance in Sunday’s 3-0 victory over Racing Santander, with Jorge Valdano warning that Vinicius Junior could face an increasingly difficult battle to reclaim his position.

The 19-year-old Ivorian produced a spectacular goal at El Sardinero, continuing his impressive run of form since returning from international duty.

Diomande has now registered four goals and four assists in his last six appearances, making him an increasingly important attacking option for José Mourinho’s side.

His performances have attracted praise from former Real Madrid player and manager Jorge Valdano, who believes the youngster has grown significantly in confidence since his early appearances for the Spanish giants.

Speaking on Movistar, Valdano said: “He has gained confidence; he looked a little timid in the first matches.”

The Argentine also suggested that Diomande’s emergence could have significant implications for Vinicius, whose position in the starting lineup is no longer guaranteed.

“These matches are bad news for Vinicius, who will have to win back the place that his teammates have now taken from him,” Valdano said.

Vinicius is expected to feature against AEK Athens in Wednesday’s Champions League encounter before serving the final match of his domestic suspension against Valencia.

The Brazilian will subsequently become available for La Liga selection after the international break when Real Madrid face Celta Vigo.

However, Mourinho has refused to guarantee him an immediate return to the starting lineup, despite expressing his admiration for the Brazilian.

“I like Vinicius a lot, I need him, but I’m not saying he will start,” the Portuguese manager said ahead of the Racing Santander encounter.

Diomande’s recent performances have strengthened his position in the attacking department, with the youngster combining goalscoring ability, creativity and work rate to make a strong case for continued involvement.

His development is also attracting attention because of the competition for places in Madrid’s forward line, where established stars must now contend with the emergence of another exciting attacking talent.

With Vinicius facing the challenge of reclaiming his starting position, Diomande has an opportunity to establish himself as one of Mourinho’s preferred attacking options.