Syndicated reporting provided by Stats Perform and reviewed by the SoccerNews editorial team.
Kylian Mbappe believes Yan Diomande “has what it takes” to succeed at Real Madrid and has urged patience around the teenager.
Diomande joined Los Blancos this summer for a reported €125m, plus €15m in add-ons, after a stellar campaign with RB Leipzig in 2025-26.
The 19-year-old contributed to 22 goals in 36 games across all competitions for Leipzig last season (13 goals, nine assists), with only Christoph Baumgartner (25) registering more goal involvements than him.
In the Bundesliga, Diomande led all players for successful dribbles (118) and take-on ending carries (104), though he has seen a reduced role since joining Jose Mourinho’s side.
The Ivory Coast international has started in just two of his seven appearances this season, though did manage to record an assist for Mbappe against Elche last time out.
Against Elche, Diomande led the match in dribbles completed (7/9), duels won (12/19) and created the joint-most chances (three).
Mbappe believes Diomande can play a key role for Madrid this season, but insists the club must also protect him.
“He’s at a stage in his development. Building relationships between the players, as a team, is key. Diomande is part of that right now,” Mbappe told AS.
— Real Madrid C.F. (@realmadriden) September 15, 2026
“From his first day at Valdebebas, we saw he has quality. Then people talk a lot during matches, about the €140 million transfer fee and all that.
“He’s young, only 19, but the quality is there. We see it, and he’s already shown he has what it takes. We try to protect him, and all the players in the squad, because ultimately we’re going to need everyone.
“A season is very long, and if we want to compete for all the titles, we can’t compete with just eleven players.”
La Liga News
The Numbers Game: Atletico and Real Madrid go toe-to-toe for bragging rights
La Liga News
Cardoso grateful for Simeone faith as Atletico boss demands more
La Liga News
Raphinha and Barcelona ‘hungry for victory’ after perfect start to 2026-27
La Liga News
Rodri would welcome Alvarez to Barcelona ‘without hesitation’
La Liga News
Mourinho’s risks paid off to snatch dramatic win at Elche
La Liga News
‘It’s a dream’ – Teenage forward Abdelkarim pens new Barcelona contract
We use cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website. By using our website you agree to our use of cookies in accordance with our Privacy Policy.
Discover more from NAIRAVOICE.COM.NG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
