Yan Diomande of Real Madrid
Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website
Yan Diomande may have arrived at Real Madrid with a huge price tag and plenty of expectations, but Jose Mourinho already appears to have a clear idea of what he wants from the Ivorian.
According to Bernabeu Digital, Mourinho is highly impressed by the potential Diomande has shown since arriving at Valdebebas.
The Real Madrid manager reportedly sees a player with enormous room for growth and believes the new signing has the qualities to eventually become a regular starter.
As per reports, the Portuguese coach is said to be particularly pleased with Diomande’s attitude.
His willingness to work, develop and learn has reportedly made a positive impression during his early days at the club.
While it remains unclear how quickly he will be introduced into the starting XI, Mourinho’s long-term vision appears to be much more ambitious.
Mourinho believes Diomande can become a Real Madrid regular
Yan Diomande of Real Madrid
Real Madrid have a lot of faith in Yan Diomande. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)
Real Madrid’s latest signing has joined the club with a major reputation, but Mourinho believes Diomande has the potential to justify the faith placed in him.
Simply put, the Portuguese manager sees no obvious limit to how far the young Ivorian can develop. More importantly, Diomande’s profile gives Mourinho several options.
The Real Madrid coach is understood to appreciate his ability to adapt, while his attitude has also caught the manager’s attention.
Mourinho sees a player willing to put in the work required to improve and establish himself at one of the biggest clubs in world football.
However, it is important to note that it does not necessarily mean Diomande will immediately start every match.
A new arrival needs time to adapt, particularly when the expectations surrounding his move are so high.
Yan Diomande, RB Leipzig star
Mourinho has a plan in place for Diomande. (Photo by Daniela Porcelli/Getty Images)
However, Mourinho intends to develop the youngster into a player who starts regularly once he has settled into the demands of the club.
Real Madrid’s most expensive summer signing
Diomande has become Real Madrid’s biggest investment of the summer, which naturally places even greater attention on his development.
A major transfer fee can create immediate pressure, especially for a young player joining a club where every performance is closely analysed.
For now, though, the focus appears to be on helping him adapt rather than demanding instant results.
The excitement around Diomande is already growing among Real Madrid supporters, while Mourinho himself is eager to see how the Ivorian performs once he begins playing regularly.
Hence, it will now be Mourinho’s task to find the right role for him and create an environment where he can continue to develop.
Real Madrid star expected to recover from discomfort in time for La Liga opener vs Espanyol
Aurelien Tchouameni #8 of France
Photo by Mattia Ozbot/Getty Images
Only a little over a week remains before Real Madrid kick off their new season under the new management of Jose Mourinho.
The Merengues have been hard at work over the past month as the Portuguese tactician looks to get the team up and running for the challenges that lie ahead.
One more pre-season friendly against Schalke awaits this weekend before Real Madrid begin their La Liga campaign against RCD Espanyol.
And, Mourinho has recovered the entire squad, barring those injured, after the rest of the World Cup stars returned earlier this week, although one player, Aurelien Tchouameni, is not training with the group.
Tchouameni expected to be ready for start of the season
In a positive update, though, journalist Arancha Rodriguez reports that Tchouameni will be ready in time for Real Madrid’s La Liga opener against Espanyol.
Aurelien Tchouameni, France and Real Madrid star
Tchouameni is dealing with a physical issue. (Photo by Buda Mendes/Getty Images)
The French midfielder is understood to be dealing with a physical discomfort, but as per the report, he is recovering well from the issue.
As such, even though he might miss the upcoming friendly against Schalke this weekend, Tchouameni will be available at Mourinho’s disposal next week when Los Blancos take on the Catalan outfit.
Intense competition in midfield
Tchouameni endured a hit-and-miss World Cup campaign with France where he missed a few matches due to an injury was not always at his best.
Having now returned to Real Madrid, the former AS Monaco star finds himself staring at an intense battle for places in midfield.
Bernardo Silva of Real Madrid
Pushing for a spot in midfield (Photo by David Balogh/Getty Images)
With Mourinho opting to use his trusted 4-2-3-1 formation, Tchouameni, who is a target for Manchester United, finds himself competing with five other players for a spot in the middle of the park.
Indeed, captain Federico Valverde, new signing Bernardo Silva, Eduardo Camavinga, Arda Guler, and youngster Thiago Pitarch are all vying for the two pivot positions in the centre of the park along with Tchouameni.
In fact, as things stand, it appears that Bernardo has convinced Mourinho and could be a starter, alongside Valverde, who happens to be the club captain.
So, Tchouameni, once he recovers fully, will have a huge challenge ahead to force his way back into the starting XI at Real Madrid.