Former teammate makes stunning Lamine Yamal claim about Real Madrid target Yan Diomande

When Sergio González came through Real Madrid’s youth academy before becoming Leganés captain, he thought he had seen just about every kind of young talent. Then Yan Diomande showed up.

The veteran center back, now searching for his next club after leaving Saudi Arabia, was one of the first players to witness the arrival of the little-known Ivorian winger at Leganés in early 2024. Barely 15 months later, Diomande has gone from complete unknown to one of the most sought-after young players in Europe, reportedly valued at more than $115 million and on the verge of a move to Real Madrid.

Speaking about the teenager’s meteoric rise, González recalled the exact moment everyone realized they were looking at something extraordinary.

“We couldn’t believe how good he was”

You’ve finished your spell in Saudi Arabia. Do you know where you’re headed next?

Not yet. I’m training hard and weighing my options. After my experience in Saudi Arabia, I’m open to playing abroad again. I’m hoping to find a project that really excites me and make the right decision.

When did you first see Diomande?

It was during a training game between the first team and the reserves. I knew most of the reserve players, but I didn’t know him because I think he had arrived in December and had been dealing with a minor injury, so I hadn’t seen him before.

What was your first impression?

Pure amazement. We couldn’t believe how good he was. From his very first touch, you could tell he was different. Everyone on the first team kept looking at each other asking, “Where did this kid come from?”

I think we won 7-1, but he scored their goal and caused us all kinds of problems down the left wing. He was doing unbelievable things, and we couldn’t stop him. I’d never seen a reserve team player dominate a game like that.

What stood out most?

Everything. His level was exceptional. He was fast, powerful, comfortable going both directions, combined well with teammates, constantly took defenders on, and struck the ball really well.

He impressed us from the very beginning. Even at that age, he looked like a complete player. It was obvious he’d be promoted to the first team quickly, and that’s exactly what happened. He made his debut soon afterward, and it came at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“He’s the complete package”

Did he remind you of anyone?

He’s difficult to compare because he doesn’t excel in just one area. He’s outstanding in so many aspects of the game.

Technically, he’s incredible. He reads the game well, plays quick give-and-go passes, makes smart runs, beats defenders one-on-one, dribbles in tight spaces, and thrives in open space. He’s a complete player, so it’s hard to point to just one strength.

Did you realize you were watching a future superstar?

Absolutely. Once he started training regularly with us, we realized that performance wasn’t a fluke. That was simply his level. You could tell he had extraordinary talent.

You helped him settle into the team...

Yes. I tried to stay close to him and help however I could, especially because he had no real understanding of professional soccer.

We talked about schedules, nutrition, recovery, daily routines, the gym, and how important it is to take care of yourself and give 100 percent, not just during training sessions. The coaching staff also spent a lot of time helping him, and he often stayed after practice to work on his shooting and other drills.

Is he shy?

He has a really interesting personality because he’s shy off the field but fearless on it. He listened carefully, was always respectful, and what impressed me most was his humility. He’s a great kid.

Why didn’t bigger clubs sign him sooner?

Were you surprised no major LaLiga club paid the reported $23 million transfer fee?

Not really. He had only played 10 games for us.

His improvement was incredible, and you could see his enormous potential, but it’s difficult for clubs to invest that much money in such a young player after such a small sample size.

Then he exploded in Germany...

What he’s done isn’t normal. He’s put up superstar numbers in one of Europe’s toughest leagues, where the demands are incredibly high.

He’s shown that he isn’t just a player with a bright future. He’s already producing at the highest level. It’s no surprise Europe’s biggest clubs have been battling to sign him.

Which side is he most comfortable playing on?

He’s excellent with both feet, but he likes drifting in from the left so he can shoot with his stronger right foot, which is one of his biggest weapons.

At the same time, he’s powerful enough to beat defenders on the outside. I’ve also watched him play on the right in Germany and at the World Cup, and he’s equally effective there. He’s an incredibly complete player, and I think he’s destined for the very top.

“He can reach Lamine Yamal’s level”

Can he succeed at Real Madrid?

We’ll find out if the move happens, but I believe he absolutely can.

It might actually help him that he won’t arrive as the team’s biggest star. Developing without carrying all the attention could be good for him. It’s important that he isn’t under too much pressure at first.

As time goes on, he’ll naturally take on more responsibility. In terms of talent, though, he’s more than good enough to play for Real Madrid.

Can he reach Lamine Yamal’s level?

Honestly, yes.

It may sound crazy, but based on his development, I believe he can reach that level. Lamine has had more opportunities and has been proving himself for longer, but if Yan gets the same chance, I think he can match him and maybe even surpass him.

He’s exceptionally gifted. His potential is unbelievable. He’s a phenomenon.

That’s his level, and I think he’s going to prove it. He’s taken huge steps throughout his career, and another one is coming. The only question I have is how he’ll handle the pressure mentally.

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