Mourinho delighted with Diomande. First start against Málaga?

Yan Diomande could be given his first opportunity in Real Madrid’s starting XI. According to OKDIARIO, José Mourinho has been delighted with the 19-year-old’s opening weeks and is considering starting him against Málaga on Sunday.

The Ivorian has been introduced gradually. He made his debut in the friendly against Schalke 04 before coming off the bench in Madrid’s league matches against Espanyol and Real Sociedad. His adaptation process may now be accelerated.

OKDIARIO reports that Diomande has impressed during training. Mourinho particularly values his pace, dribbling, directness and ability to beat opponents. Those qualities suit a team looking to attack space and move quickly from defence into transition.

Málaga could become the first opponent Diomande faces as a starter. No decision has been confirmed, and Mourinho is still considering several possible line-ups. Even if the winger begins on the bench again, the Spanish report expects him to receive more minutes.

That development carries additional significance because of the investment involved. Madrid reportedly paid RB Leipzig approximately €125 million plus bonuses, with the total potentially reaching €135 million. The Guardian described it as a club-record transfer. At that price, “gradual introduction” tends to have a fairly short shelf life.

Madrid officially handed Diomande a contract running until 30 June 2033. The 19-year-old will wear number 25 and said during his presentation that he intends to give everything to the club. Contract details and photographs from the ceremony were published on Real Madrid’s official website.

Mourinho has already responded to Diomande’s declaration that he was willing to “die” for his coach. The Portuguese manager said he would prefer to hear the player express that commitment towards the team and Real Madrid, but also praised the winger’s attitude. His comments were published by the club’s official media.

For now, Mourinho’s reported satisfaction and the possibility of a start remain media information rather than a public confirmation from the coach. The general direction is nevertheless clear: Diomande was not signed to spend several months studying Madrid’s right wing from the bench.

The protective period for a €135 million teenager may therefore end after two league matches. Young players need time, after all. Preferably no longer than next Sunday.