Arda Güler leads Diomande in Real Madrid selection battle
Güler is expected to start against Real Sociedad, with Diomande set for another role from the bench. Mourinho plans to use both players at the Bernabéu.
Arda Güler is currently ahead of Yan Diomande in the race to start Real Madrid’s match against Real Sociedad. José Mourinho is expected to use both players, but only one can begin on the right. Being the most expensive signing in the club’s history does not guarantee Diomande priority.
According to AS, the right side of Madrid’s attack is the main uncertainty surrounding Mourinho’s lineup. Güler is the favourite to retain his place, with Diomande expected to enter later in the game.
Another option would involve moving Güler into a deeper position and starting Diomande on the wing. That scenario is considered less likely. With Aurélien Tchouaméni unavailable, Federico Valverde and Bernardo Silva are expected to control midfield while Güler remains closer to the attack.
The Turkish international earned another opportunity during the 2-1 win over Espanyol. He started the match and provided the delivery for Jude Bellingham’s ninth-minute header. Güler created another similar chance after the break, but the goalkeeper and crossbar prevented Bellingham from scoring again.
His movement inside also gave Madrid an additional passing option while creating space for the full-back. Alongside Vinícius, Bellingham and Kylian Mbappé, Güler offered Mourinho more control without removing creativity from the front line.
Diomande still made an impact after coming off the bench. He attacked a tiring Espanyol defence and played the pass to Mbappé during the move that ended with Carlos Espí scoring the winner. It was an encouraging competitive debut, although not enough to move him ahead of Güler immediately.
The Ivorian’s transfer fee makes the contest more intriguing. Diomande is Real Madrid’s record signing and has now completed his official presentation, signing until 2033. His contract, shirt number and price are settled. His position in Mourinho’s starting lineup is not.
Few changes are expected against Real Sociedad. Marc Cucurella is in line for his first start, Bernardo Silva should remain in midfield, while Bellingham, Vinícius and Mbappé are considered certain to feature. The major decision concerns Güler and Diomande.
Madrid will confirm the lineup shortly before kick-off. For now, Güler is leading the race. Diomande should get another opportunity from the bench, but Florentino Pérez’s record investment may have to wait a little longer for his first start.
