Diomande is a very exciting prospect in Mourinho’s attacking puzzle and he is finally beginning to show why Real invested so heavily in him.
Arriving from RB Leipzig after an impressive 2025–26 campaign when he recorded 12 goals and nine assists, Diomande caught Real’s attention with his pace, direct dribbling and ability to beat defenders one-on-one.
However, Mourinho took several weeks to give him opportunities, and the winger did not start any of the club’s first five games of the season.
That has changed dramatically, with Diomande starting five of the past six matches, including the most recent three.
He is joint-second for more goal involvements with three goals and four assists, averages the most complete dribbles per 90 minutes, and is third for the most chances created in open play.
Mourinho has praised his attitude, saying: “He works well and hard, he’s humble and wants to learn and work. He listens to me and his team-mates. He will grow.”
He has also recognised the progress being made, adding: “He has a lot to improve, but he’s had a great game. He’s developing.”
Now, Vinicius’ suspension presents Diomande with an even bigger opportunity.
After impressing on the left wing against Sevilla and Leipzig, he is set to have three La Liga matches without direct competition from the Brazilian, beginning with El Clasico against Barcelona on Sunday.
It is arguably his biggest test since arriving at the Bernabeu, giving him the chance to prove he can deliver on the biggest stage and establish himself as more than just a promising prospect and challenge Vinicius for a regular starting spot.
The question for Mourinho will be what happens when Vinicius returns, particularly as he remains available for Champions League action.
If Diomande can turn his recent run of starts into consistent goals, assists and decisive performances, he could become a crucial part of Real’s attack and begin to justify the enormous investment the club have made in him.
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