Diomande was handed his first start for Real Madrid on Saturday as Mourinho’s side secured a convincing 4-1 victory over Rayo Vallecano, giving the Ivorian his biggest opportunity since completing his move to the club from RB Leipzig last month.
The winger had previously been limited to brief substitute appearances following his arrival, but Mourinho rewarded him with a place in the starting XI against Rayo Vallecano.
Although the manager was impressed by several aspects of Diomande’s performance, he believes the young forward still has significant tactical development ahead of him.
“He has a lot to learn tactically,” Mourinho said.
The Portuguese manager, however, was quick to highlight the qualities that have made Diomande such an exciting prospect, particularly his ability to beat defenders, deliver dangerous crosses and threaten goal.
“But you can see he has incredible potential in one-on-ones, his crossing, and his shooting. He’s a very strong player who gives us a lot of options.”
Mourinho also pointed to Diomande’s versatility as one of his major strengths. The winger can operate from either flank and provide an alternative to established stars in Madrid’s attack.
“He can play in [Vinícius Júnior’s] position, or on the right… I want to see Diomande evolve, because I know what the other [players] can give me.”
The comments underline Mourinho’s expectations for the club’s record signing. While the manager recognises that Diomande still has tactical aspects of his game to refine, he appears convinced that the youngster possesses the individual qualities required to make a significant impact at the Bernabéu.
His first start against Rayo Vallecano could therefore represent an important step in Diomande’s adaptation to life at Real Madrid, with Mourinho now keen to see how quickly the Ivorian can develop and compete for a regular place in the team.