Yan Diomande has opened up about his move to Real Madrid, his admiration for Cristiano Ronaldo, and his mentality ahead of a new chapter at one of football's biggest clubs.
The young forward explained that receiving a call from Madrid was an opportunity he simply could not turn down.
“When Real Madrid calls, you can NOT say no.”
Diomande also revealed just how overwhelmed he was when the Spanish giants first contacted him.
“When Real Madrid called me, I couldn’t even sleep! I couldn’t believe it,” he told SportyTV.
“The biggest club in the world, calling me!”
For Diomande, the move represents the fulfilment of a major ambition, but his connection to Madrid goes even deeper because of one particular player.
Cristiano Ronaldo Remains Diomande's Idol
Diomande has named Cristiano Ronaldo as his football idol and explained that the Portuguese legend's presence can still be felt around the club.
“Cristiano Ronaldo is my idol.”
“When I go to training, I look at his pictures; the pictures say everything,” Diomande said.
“The walk, the aura. I’m proud to play in the club my idol played in.”
Ronaldo spent nine seasons at Real Madrid and became the club's all-time leading goalscorer, leaving a legacy that continues to inspire younger players who arrive at the Santiago Bernabéu.
For Diomande, following in the footsteps of his idol makes his move to Madrid even more meaningful.
Diomande Feels No Pressure Over Transfer Fee
Despite the financial investment involved in bringing him to the club, Diomande insists that the transfer fee will not affect his mentality.
“I feel ZERO pressure,” he said.
“They spent a lot of money because they believe in me; why will I be scared?”
The youngster believes the responsibility is simply to continue playing his football.
“I’m not scared, I feel no pressure, I will do what I do, and God will do the rest.”
That confidence could prove important as Diomande adapts to the expectations that come with wearing the Real Madrid shirt.
Ready to Give Everything for Mourinho
Diomande also spoke about José Mourinho and the mentality required when playing under the Portuguese coach.
“When you play for José Mourinho, you want to DIE for him.”
“I am ready to die for him,” Diomande added.
His comments underline the strong admiration he has for Mourinho and his willingness to give everything for his manager.
For a young player entering an environment filled with enormous expectations, Diomande's message is remarkably confident... he isn't intimidated by the size of the club, the transfer fee, or the pressure surrounding him.
Instead, he appears determined to embrace the opportunity; inspired by Ronaldo, backed by Real Madrid, and ready to work under Mourinho.