Yan Diomande of Real Madrid
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Yan Diomande was the standout performer in Real Madrid’s 1-0 victory over Villarreal at the Santiago Bernabeu.
The summer arrival scored his first goal in a Real Madrid shirt, which was enough to secure all three points for his team on Saturday night.
Signed from RB Leipzig in the summer for a massive fee of €140 million, including add-ons, the teenage winger endured a slow start to life in the Spanish capital, with minutes being drip-fed by manager Jose Mourinho.
But, having started against Villarreal last night ahead of Vinicius Jr., the Ivory Coast international made the most of his opportunity.
Diomande overjoyed
After the final whistle, Diomande spoke to Real Madrid TV about the performance and his landmark moment.
“It was a good match. We always play to win, and today we did that. I am happy with the victory,” he said.
Yan Diomande of Real Madrid
Off the mark. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Diomande also expressed his excitement about playing at Real Madrid’s home ground, highlighting the pride he feels whenever he steps onto the pitch.
“It is always good to play here. It is the most beautiful stadium in the world and the biggest club. I am always excited to play here,” he said.
The forward was delighted to finally get his name on the scoresheet, explaining how much the moment meant to him and the team.
“I am happy. I had been waiting for that first goal for a long time. I am pleased, both for myself and for the team. In that position, I think the only option was to control the ball, turn and shoot,” Diomande explained.
Yan Diomande of Real Madrid
More to come from Diomande. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Looking forward to the Champions League
Up next for Los Blancos is a UEFA Champions League encounter against AS Roma in Italy next week.
And Diomande could not hide his excitement about competing in the Champions League with Real Madrid, describing it as a dream for any young footballer.
“I am really excited about playing in the Champions League. It is every child’s dream, and I am grateful to be playing in it with Real Madrid,” he concluded.
Jose Mourinho, Manager of Real Madrid
Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images
Vinicius Junior of Real Madrid
Vinicius Jr. was shown a red card minutes after coming on against Villarreal. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Jose Mourinho, Manager of Real Madrid
Jose Mourinho 2.0 seems to be a more refined yet aggressive version of his previous avatar. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)