Yan Diomande’s recent performances for Real Madrid have strengthened Jose Mourinho’s options and left Vinicius Junior facing an uncomfortable comparison before his return from suspension in La Liga.
According to Defensa Central, the Ivorian winger has filled the gap created by Vinicius’ absence and made a strong case for continued involvement in the team. His form has also prompted questions over how Mourinho will manage the situation once Vinicius is available again.
Diomande completed six successful dribbles in Real Madrid’s match against Valencia alone. Vinicius, by comparison, managed four successful dribbles across his matches against AEK Athens, Leipzig, Roma, Villarreal, Atletico de Madrid, Elche and Rayo Vallecano combined.
The approaching return of Vinicius explains why Mourinho was repeatedly asked about the selection issue during his news conference before the meeting with Valencia at Mestalla.
The Real Madrid manager insisted that the team’s interests would come before those of any individual player.
“For me, the absolute priority is the team. I would never deliberately make a decision that could harm the group for the benefit of one particular player,” the Portuguese told reporters.
Mourinho added that the question could have been raised in the Champions League, but said he would address it when Vinicius became available.
“In the Champions League, this issue could have been raised, but when Vinicius is available, I will deal with the situation accordingly,” he said.
He also stressed that his players must concentrate on the match immediately in front of them, while acknowledging that a manager has to consider the wider schedule.
“I want the players to approach every match focused on the present, although, as a coach, I have to have a different perspective,” Mourinho said.
“My responsibility is to assess the sequence of commitments and matches ahead of us. The game against AEK Athens was a good opportunity for Vinicius, as well as an opportunity to give Guler some rest.”
Real Madrid’s schedule includes a Copa del Rey fixture against Tavernes de la Valldigna on 10 November 2026. They will then face Valencia in La Liga on 21 November 2026, before travelling to play Celta Vigo.
Those matches will provide Mourinho with further decisions to make over the balance of his attack as Diomande’s form continues to develop and Vinicius approaches his return to domestic competition.
