Ivorian youngster Yan Diomandé has revealed how the memory of his late sister continues to inspire his performances, while describing the atmosphere at Real Madrid as one built on a strong sense of family.
The young forward says he has settled into life at the Spanish giants, where the warmth of his team-mates has helped him adjust despite his naturally shy personality.
Speaking to RM Play about his experience at the club, Diomandé admitted that he has not changed much off the pitch but feels comfortable among the players in the dressing room.
“I’m shy, I always have been, that hasn’t changed. I’m also the youngest on the team. There are a lot of nice and fun players here… Vini, Kylian, Aurélien. I really feel like I’m with family.”
The Ivorian mentioned Vinícius Júnior, Kylian Mbappé and Aurélien Tchouaméni among the players who have contributed to the welcoming atmosphere he has experienced.
For Diomandé, the opportunity to represent Real Madrid is also a dream realised. Having previously watched the club’s biggest stars on television, he now shares a dressing room with them and gets the chance to learn from some of the best players in the game.
“It’s a pleasure, an honor to play with the best players in the world. Before, I watched them on TV, and now I share the same locker room as them.”
His journey, however, is driven by more than the ambition to succeed at one of football’s biggest clubs. Diomandé revealed that his late sister and his mother remain central to his motivation, with every performance carrying a personal significance.
” I think about my sister and my mother, but especially my sister because, as everyone knows, I lost her. I give my all in every match in her memory.”
The emotional tribute offers an insight into the personal motivation behind the youngster’s determination to improve and give his best whenever he takes to the pitch.
His quality has also been reflected in his performances for Real Madrid. Diomandé scored the third goal in the club’s 3-0 victory over Racing Santander, producing an impressive contribution in a match where his energy, dribbling and willingness to take on opponents stood out.
The goal added to the growing excitement around his performances, with the Ivorian demonstrating his ability to make an impact while working for the benefit of the team.
