World Cup dream becomes reality for RB Leipzig sensation Yan Diomande | OneFootball

Just over 12 months ago, Diomande had made only 10 La Liga appearances for Leganés and was left to endure the heartbreak of relegation at the end of the 2024/25 season. At that point, the winger had only been called up to the Ivory Coast U23 side.

Fast forward a year, and the 19-year-old’s career has taken off. Following a superb debut Bundesliga campaign with RB Leipzig, Diomande is now preparing to represent The Elephants on football’s biggest stage in the United States, Canada and Mexico.

Speaking to RB Leipzig’s official media channels, the youngster could barely contain his excitement.

“As a little boy, when I started playing football in my home country, it was my dream to play in the World Cup, and now it is coming true.” 

However, Diomande is not travelling to the tournament simply to make up the numbers. The winger made it clear that Ivory Coast are aiming to make a deep run.

“We will give everything in every game to win. That is exactly what we will try to do… We have great confidence and want to go as far as possible.”

Having already tested himself in both La Liga and the Bundesliga, Diomande expressed his eagerness to challenge himself against the very best international opposition.

“I want to play against the best in the world. France, Brazil, Argentina,” he said. 

The teenager was also asked about similarities with Ivorian icon Didier Drogba. While acknowledging the former Chelsea striker’s influence, Diomande stressed his desire to forge his own identity.

“No, no, no. I have my own, well my own view of football. I don’t model myself after… Drogba is a good player, but he is not the player I model myself after because we have a different way of playing, so… I wouldn’t say Drogba, but he is a great legend, yes,” Diomande explained. 

“You can also see it this way: He is a role model - not for me, but for every player in my country, and I think also for this generation of Africans, for young players.”

Reflecting on what has been a genuine breakthrough season, Diomande remains remarkably grounded despite the growing spotlight. The winger contributed 12 Bundesliga goals and eight assists during a campaign filled with dazzling performances for Die Roten Bullen.

“I think everyone somehow sees me as a star, but I don’t see myself as a star. For me, I am still the same person as before, since the first day I arrived here. That’s why I try to fight every day to improve myself in everything, on and off the field,” he concluded. 

Diomande’s attention now turns to Ivory Coast’s opening World Cup fixture against Ecuador on 15 June, where he will have the opportunity to showcase his talent once again - this time on the biggest stage in world football.