Yan Diomande produced a standout display as Real Madrid beat FC Barcelona 2-1 at Camp Nou on Sunday, reinforcing the argument that he should now start ahead of Vinicius Junior.
The Ivorian international caused problems for the FC Barcelona defence throughout the match and played a direct part in one of Real Madrid’s goals. His contribution was not limited to his work in possession, however, as he also made an important defensive impact on the flank.
Diomande supported Marc Cucurella in dealing with Lamine Yamal, FC Barcelona’s star player, and helped limit the threat on that side of the pitch. Despite the quality of his performance, he did not receive the recognition it deserved.
The winger completed a series of effective dribbles and delivered the cross from which Kylian Mbappe scored his first goal of the evening. On several occasions, Diomande appeared close to losing possession, but he repeatedly escaped from FC Barcelona players and followed those runs with precise passes to his team-mates.
His performance against FC Barcelona, alongside those in the matches that followed, has highlighted how well suited he currently appears to Real Madrid. Jose Mourinho must recognise that Diomande is offering qualities the team needs on a consistent basis.
Real Madrid require a winger willing to contribute defensively rather than avoiding the physical demands of the game. They also need a player who does not make matters unnecessarily complicated by becoming stuck on the touchline while attempting to beat several defenders.
Decision-making is another key requirement. The ideal wide player must understand when to release the ball, when to take on an opponent and, above all, how to make a decisive contribution. Diomande demonstrated those qualities against FC Barcelona.
Vinicius Junior, by contrast, is currently regarded as lacking each of them. Diomande does make mistakes, but he recovers from them with striking ease and continues to produce outstanding and consistent displays from the wing.
The Brazilian, meanwhile, has lost confidence and is no longer showing the obvious talent he displayed previously. Real Madrid cannot continue selecting Vinicius Junior simply in the hope that he will eventually rediscover his best form.
At present, the source argues that Diomande is clearly superior to Vinicius Junior and should take his place in the starting line-up for most matches.
