By Our Reporter
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has praised the “incredible potential” of record signing Yan Diomande while stressing that the young winger still has plenty to learn after making his first LaLiga start in Saturday’s 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano.
Diomande, who joined Real Madrid from RB Leipzig last month, had previously made only brief substitute appearances but was handed a starting role at the Santiago Bernabéu.
The winger played for 72 minutes before being substituted as Madrid secured a convincing victory.
Kylian Mbappé opened the scoring before Álvaro Carreras and Jude Bellingham added further goals to give Madrid a commanding 3-0 lead at half-time.
Sergio Camello pulled one back for Rayo after the break, but Mbappé struck again in stoppage time to complete the scoring.
Mourinho said Diomande’s limited experience at the highest level means the player must continue developing, particularly tactically.
“He has a lot to learn tactically,” Mourinho said, while highlighting the winger’s ability in one-on-one situations, crossing and shooting.
The Madrid boss added that Diomande’s versatility gives the team additional options, with the youngster capable of playing on either flank.
Mourinho also admitted that Madrid struggled physically and mentally after the break following their demanding Champions League victory over Inter Milan in midweek.
He said he expected the team’s intensity to drop during the second half but was pleased that Madrid had done enough damage before the interval to secure the points.
Vinícius Júnior also earned praise from Mourinho after assisting Bellingham’s goal. The Brazilian, who had been booed by some supporters during the week, was warmly embraced by the coach when he was substituted late in the match.
Mourinho said Vinícius is physically close to his best and remains mentally strong, adding that his recent contribution through assists and defensive work should eventually be followed by more goals.