Yan Diomande produced his most convincing performance since joining Real Madrid in Tuesday’s 3-2 win at Elche, providing his first assist for the Spanish club before attracting further attention with a kiss of the badge.
The 19-year-old winger started for the second consecutive match and made a decisive contribution to Real’s second goal. Released into space, Diomande found Kylian Mbappe, who finished the move to put the visitors ahead.
It was the first clear on-field return on the investment Real Madrid made in the Ivorian, who joined for 125m euros (£108m), with a further 15m euros (£13m) available in bonuses.
Diomande became the most expensive African player in football history this summer and has consequently faced significant scrutiny during the early weeks of his Real Madrid career.
Spanish newspaper AS praised his response against Elche, highlighting his willingness to take on defenders, make repeated runs and contribute to the team’s defensive work.
That represented a marked improvement on his first start, against Rayo Vallecano, when his display was viewed less favourably. The Madrid-based newspaper went as far as to suggest the Ivorian had “left the Bernabeu cold”.
His transfer fee, limited playing time and competition from Arda Guler and Brahim Diaz had already prompted questions over whether he could establish himself in the team.
Jose Mourinho had called for patience with a player who only arrived this summer. Former manager Herve Renard expressed a similar view in an interview with Afrik-Foot, arguing that Diomande should be given time to adapt.
The winger’s performance at Elche offered an answer on the pitch, although one strong match will not be enough to end all the criticism surrounding him.
A significant gesture
AS suggested Diomande had finally provided a genuine “calling card” with his latest display. In its post-match analysis, the publication also pointed to his defensive recoveries, his support for Trent Alexander-Arnold and the runs he made behind Elche’s defence.
Alongside creating a goal, Diomande showed he could influence the game without the ball. That aspect of his performance may prove as important as his dribbling if he is to earn Mourinho’s trust over the longer term.
Another moment came in stoppage time when Diomande was substituted. As he left the field, he kissed the Real Madrid badge, an image that circulated widely after the final whistle.
At a club where players can build a relationship with supporters through such gestures, the image complemented his first major performance. It does not, however, guarantee him a starting place or secure the lasting affection of the Bernabeu crowd.
The next challenge is consistency. Real Madrid needed a late winner after allowing Elche to recover from 2-0 down to level at 2-2, and Diomande will need to reproduce this level against stronger opposition.
For the first time, though, the conversation is beginning to move beyond what Real Madrid paid for him and towards what he can contribute.