Mourinho already working on clear role for 19-year-old Real Madrid-bound sensation | OneFootball

Real Madrid may not have announced the signing of Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig yet, but it already feels like a deal that has got over the line.

The talented teenager made waves in the Bundesliga last season and also at the World Cup with Ivory Coast, and is now set to join the Spanish capital club.

According to Italian journalist Fabrizio Romano, manager Jose Mourinho has already started planning how Diomande will fit into his Real Madrid attack, with the young winger expected to receive opportunities on both sides of the front line.

Mourinho sees Diomande primarily as an option on the right, although the coach also intends to use him from the left when required.

Madrid are not viewing the Ivorian simply as another squad addition, but as a player who could quickly earn an important tactical role.

Mourinho wants to accelerate Diomande’s integration

Mourinho already has a plan for Diomande. (Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website)

Mourinho personally approved Diomande as a leading target after asking the Madrid hierarchy to add more speed to the squad.

The next challenge will be turning that investment into consistent performances. Jose appears determined to start that process immediately.

Using Diomande from the right would allow him to attack defenders directly, stretch the pitch and bring natural flair on that side.

His ability to operate on the left is equally valuable. It gives Mourinho the freedom to change the shape of the attack without making a substitution and provides cover if Vinicius Junior is unavailable.

Versatility can help manage expectations

Diomande is coming with a massive transfer fee hanging around his neck, but Madrid must be careful with managing their expectations.

Arrival imminent. (Photo by Robert Cianflone/Getty Images)

He is still only 19, and adapting to Real Madrid involves far more than showing technical quality.

The pressure, tactical responsibility and competition for places will all represent significant tests.

That is why a flexible role could help.

Rather than locking Diomande into one position, Mourinho can introduce him according to the needs of individual matches.

He could start wide, attack tired defenders from the bench or switch flanks during games.

It is great to see that Jose has already started planning for Diomande’s arrival, and the next few weeks should provide an indication of where the manager chooses to deploy him.