Ivorian winger Yan Diomande says he could barely sleep after learning that Real Madrid wanted to sign him, describing his move from RB Leipzig to the Spanish giants as a dream.
The 19-year-old has signed a contract with Real Madrid until 2033 after completing his move from Leipzig. He is among the most expensive transfers of the summer so far, following a remarkable rise during his first season in the Bundesliga.
Speaking to SportyTV, in comments reported by Spanish and German media including AS and Bild, Diomande explained the impact of Real Madrid’s interest and the role played by new coach José Mourinho in his decision.
“I’m happy to be here. It still feels like a dream,” said Diomande.
The Ivorian admitted that the prospect of joining one of the biggest clubs in world football was difficult to comprehend when he first learned of the interest.
“There’s no bigger club than Madrid. When I heard they wanted me, I couldn’t sleep. I couldn’t believe it.”
Diomande also revealed that Mourinho made direct contact with him before the transfer was completed, an approach which left the teenager surprised.
“I was surprised because he speaks French. I think it was five o’clock in the morning in Portugal, and he woke me up to talk to me. He told me it was important. And I said: Why not? It’s Real Madrid, and when Real Madrid calls you, you don’t say no. I told him: If you want me to come, then of course I’ll come,” said the Leipzig record departure.
Mourinho’s return to Real Madrid was therefore an important factor in Diomande’s decision. The Portuguese coach previously managed the Spanish club between 2010 and 2013 before returning to the Bernabeu this summer.
After Diomande completed his move, the pair met again in Madrid, with Mourinho reminding the youngster of their earlier conversation.
“He said to me: ‘You’re part of my team and you’re here, so I’m happy.’ I told him: ‘I’m happy to be part of your team, and I want to work with you because it’s the best club.'”
The teenager believes Mourinho’s experience could be particularly valuable as he adapts to life at one of the world’s most demanding clubs.
“He’s a great personality, which is good for young players because sometimes you lose focus. He’s exactly the right coach for me and my development.”
Diomande has also sought advice from fellow Ivorian Didier Drogba, who enjoyed a long and successful relationship with Mourinho during his time at Chelsea.
The former Ivory Coast striker made 187 appearances for Chelsea while working under Mourinho, and Diomande says he recently spoke to his compatriot about the move.
“I spoke to Drogba two days ago. He told me that Mourinho was like a father to him. He said I have to work hard. Drogba is a good guy.
“And of course, you listen to him because he was and still is a legend. You have to listen to him. It’s good to have conversations like that because I draw a lot of motivation from them,” the striker said of his exchange with his compatriot.
Diomande’s rapid rise has been one of the more striking stories of his young career.
He only joined Leipzig from CD Leganés last summer, but his performances in Germany quickly attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs.
His market value is reported to have risen from €1.5m to €90m in the space of a year.
