Diomande puts Mourinho in a tight spot: "They did you a favor with Vinicius' suspension"

The Ivorian winger of Real Madrid, who scored and assisted against Sevilla, has already scored more goals this season than the Brazilian.

Mario Roldán Martínez | 19 Oct 2026 | 17.30
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Yan Diomande, player of Real Madrid / Getty Images
Yan Diomande, player of Real Madrid / Getty Images

La Liga
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Getafe Rayo Vallecano
19/10/26 21:00:00
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Yan Diomande, a 19-year-old Ivorian winger, scored and assisted in Real Madrid's 4-1 victory against Sevilla, a result that reopens the debate about the starting position of Vinicius. Journalist Sique Rodríguez considered that the four-game suspension of the Brazilian has favored José Mourinho, as it allowed testing an alternative that may bring more balance to the team. Real Madrid's transfer market renewed the '7' until 2032 this summer.

Yan Diomande takes advantage of Vinicius' suspension

Diomande had one of his most productive games since joining Real Madrid. He provided an assist for the first goal, was involved in other crucial attacking plays, and sealed the score with a long-range shot in the final minute against Sevilla.

The Ivorian has seized the opportunity in Vinicius' absence, who received a four-game La Liga suspension after his expulsion against Villarreal. The punishment also rules him out of the Clasico against Barcelona on October 25, forcing Mourinho to search for alternatives on the left flank.

In La Liga, Diomande has already scored two goals, compared to Vinicius' solitary goal in the competition. It's important to note that the Brazilian has played more minutes, and the suspension has limited his recent opportunities, so the statistical difference alone doesn't determine the starting choice.

The performance against Sevilla, however, provides Mourinho with reasons to keep the competition open. Diomande brought flair, presence in the box, and off-the-ball work, factors that could influence the selection for upcoming matches.

Sique Rodríguez questions José Mourinho's management

In his analysis of Real Madrid-Sevilla, Sique Rodríguez argued that Vinicius' suspension ended up benefiting the team by giving space to Diomande. The journalist also questioned whether the Brazilian should automatically retain his starting position if the Ivorian delivers better performances within Mourinho's system.

This evaluation is crucial considering the team's current situation but doesn't reflect a decision by the coaching staff. Mourinho has publicly backed Vinicius and expressed concern over a harsher punishment; he hasn’t announced plans to bench him when he's back.

The coach must consider more than just goals. Diomande could offer an option to balance the defensive duties on the flank, whereas Vinicius has a longer history in the first team and a stable role in Madrid's attack.

Hence, the debate goes beyond who has scored more in recent matches. Mourinho's dilemma lies in whether the team excels collectively with Diomande from the start or if it's better to return to the usual structure upon the end of the Brazilian's suspension.

The Clasico could set the next course

The schedule gives Diomande another chance to prove his worth. Real Madrid faces their European commitment against Leipzig first, followed by a visit to Barcelona in a Clasico where Vinicius will remain absent due to his suspension.

Mourinho will have to decide whether to persist with the Ivorian on the left or alter the configuration of his attackers. His performance against Sevilla supports his candidacy, although a single game isn't adequate to confirm a permanent shift in the attacking hierarchy.

Yan Diomande's development in these matches will be the key indicator for the coaching staff. If he sustains his goal contributions and helps enhance Real Madrid's balance, Mourinho will have sporting grounds to prolong the competition with Vinicius upon the Brazilian's return.

This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Diomande pone en un aprieto a Mourinho: "Les han hecho un favor con la sanción a Vinicius"