Former Real Madrid star questions Yan Diomande deal – “Same agency represents Vinicius Jr.” | OneFootball

Real Madrid made an enormous investment to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig during the summer transfer window.

However, the emergence of Arda Guler as a right-wing option, and his excellent form, has seen Diomande start just one of six possible games so far.

Los Blancos’ enormous investment in Diomande has been questioned by former goalkeeper Santi Canizares.

According to Defensa Central, Canizares believes Diomande’s situation could have been influenced by circumstances surrounding Vinicius Junior’s contract renewal.

Canizares questions the Diomande operation

Canizares’ view is that Diomande’s age must remain the starting point when assessing him, not the price tag.

The former Madrid goalkeeper believes it is too early to demand personality or superstar-level performances from a teenager who is still developing.

Yan Diomande is yet to hit the ground running at Real Madrid. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)

His performances should instead be evaluated over the medium and long term.

More controversially, Canizares suspects Madrid paid such a significant amount partly because Diomande shares an agency with Vinicius.

In his view, bringing the Ivorian to the Bernabeu may have formed part of the wider negotiations surrounding Vinicius’ renewal.

While there is no proof of these claims, the coincidence of both players sharing the same agency has led to this theory.

€140 million cannot become Diomande’s burden

Diomande himself has no control over the negotiations that brought him to Madrid. He is not responsible for the price Los Blancos paid for him.

Canizares also pointed towards Madrid’s history to argue that it is unusual for 19-year-olds to immediately establish themselves at the club.

Madrid should not place unrealistic expectations on a 19-year-old Diomande. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Even Vinicius needed considerable development before becoming one of Madrid’s leading players.

Diomande’s first start against Rayo therefore needs to be treated with caution, with the Ivory Coast international showing flashes of his ability.

Madrid must protect their investment

The uncomfortable part is the transfer fee.

€140 million inevitably creates expectations, regardless of age. Every quiet performance will generate questions about whether Madrid spent the money wisely.

However, judging Diomande against his price after a handful of appearances would accomplish nothing. Madrid have bought potential.

Jose Mourinho’s responsibility is now to develop that potential without allowing the transfer fee to dictate every single conversation involving him.

Diomande will eventually have to justify Madrid’s faith on the pitch. At 19, however, Los Blancos need to wait a while before the player reaches that stage.