Yan Diomande, Real Madrid player
Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images
Yan Diomande produced one of the brightest performances of Real Madrid’s difficult 3-2 victory over Elche, but his night ended with an uncomfortable moment as he made his way past the home supporters.
The Ivorian winger made his second consecutive start after Mourinho handed him his first starting role against Rayo Vallecano last weekend.
He again showed why the manager is increasingly trusting him, creating Real Madrid’s second goal and remaining heavily involved in the decisive stages.
Diomande picked out Kylian Mbappe for the 0-2 before becoming a central figure in Madrid’s attempts to regain control after Elche fought back to 2-2.
Diomande makes his mark before late substitution
With the game level, Diomande remained one of Real Madrid’s most dangerous outlets.
Yan Diomande, Real Madrid player
Yan Diomande was extremely productive against Elche. (Photo by Francisco Macia/Getty Images)
His ability to carry the ball and attack defenders gave Mourinho’s side an important source of threat when the match became increasingly stretched.
Carlos Espi eventually restored Madrid’s lead in the 91st minute, and Mourinho immediately withdrew Diomande, bringing on Denzel Dumfries as Real Madrid looked to protect the advantage.
The substitution created an unusual scene.
Diomande responds by kissing Real Madrid crest
Diomande left the field on the opposite side from the dugouts, forcing him to walk behind the Elche goal before reaching the Madrid bench.
As he made his way around the pitch, sections of the home crowd directed insults and gestures towards him.
245' minutos en la liga.pic.twitter.com/i7BjV1Rwwg
— Picón (@JorgeCPicon) September 16, 2026
Footage recorded from the stands has since circulated widely on social media, capturing some of the abuse directed towards the youngster.
Among the words audible in the footage were “Son of a b**ch” and “you’re from Mali”.
Diomande did not appear to respond verbally. Instead, he kissed the Real Madrid crest on his shirt as he continued towards the bench.
It was a small gesture, but one that stood out after another encouraging performance from the 19-year-old.
Javier Tebas, La Liga president
Photo by Miguel Tovar/Getty Images
Javier Tebas, La Liga president
Javier Tebas has criticised the Real Madrid trio. (Photo by Barrington Coombs/Getty Images for Soccerex)
Dean Huijsen, Marc Cucurella, Real Madrid players
Vinicius, Mbappe and Konate did not wear the Cueta shirt in full. (Picture credit: Real Madrid official website)