Based on what Yan Diomande showed in Real Madrid's game against Elche, don't be surprised if he turns into one of the team's most powerful weapons for the clash with Atletico Madrid.
Real Madrid's match against Elche is already in the past; without a doubt, one of the positives it left fans with was seeing Yan Diomande's performance. It was clear that he had a weight on his shoulders because he had not been able to participate in any of the team's goals, but thanks to his assist to Martinez Valero and his effusive celebration, which showed his desire he had to give a goal pass, it seemed to free him from that weight, and he played greatly for the rest of the match.
Despite receiving a yellow card early in the match, it didn't affect him, and he fought for every ball with strength. It wasn't until the 33rd minute that, after a through ball from Trent Alexander-Arnold, the Ivorian ran down the entire right flank with the speed that defines him and, from outside the box, delivered an excellent pass to Kylian Mbappe, who sent it to the back of the net.
During this goal, as we just mentioned, Diomande was seen celebrating very effusively, as if he had freed himself from an internal tie. After that, he was very involved on the right flank, making runs every time he received the ball, and even occupied the left flank after Vinicius Jr. exited, who unfortunately had a poor performance.
Now, with a match of great difficulty in sight, having the Ivorian in great form and with confidence is very important. He may face one of LaLiga's best left-backs, Alejandro Grimaldo. His ability to penetrate through that area of the field will be one of the main access routes for the team, which will face a club that specializes in defensive play.
Another important doubt for that match would be how Jose Mourinho will use Arda Guler, since in the match vs. Elche he used him as an attacking midfielder, replacing Jude Bellingham. While against Rayo Vallecano, he was a substitute for Diomande himself, entering in the 72nd minute and amazing everyone with his performance in the last quarter of an hour on the right flank. However, the plans the Portuguese have for the young Turk are still not 100% clear.
Real Madrid must take the 3 points by any means possible, since their main rival in the championship race, Barcelona, is marching perfectly: 6 wins in 6 matches, 28 goals for and only 6 against. An absolute beast. For the merengues, letting points slip away in this stretch of the season will most likely come back to cost them dearly, as has been happening the last two years.
