Mourinho praises Diomande's potential after Real Madrid's win over Rayo Vallecano
Jose Mourinho praised Ian Diomande's first start for Real Madrid and discussed the team's physical fatigue following the Champions League match.
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Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho was impressed with winger Ian Diomande's performance during his first start in the La Liga match against Rayo Vallecano. Los Blancos secured a convincing 4-1 victory, effectively deciding the contest by halftime.
Diomande, who joined from RB Leipzig last month, played 72 minutes. Mourinho noted that the player is improving steadily.
Diomande is improving progressively. He hasn't played much top-level European football, only last season at Leipzig. He still needs to learn a lot tactically, but you can see he has incredible potential in one-on-ones and crossing. He is a very strong player who gives us many options and can play on the left or the right. Jose Mourinho
Despite the emphatic scoreline, Mourinho admitted that the squad felt significant physical fatigue following their midweek Champions League clash against Inter Milan. He explained that this was the reason for the drop in intensity during the second half. The manager also singled out Vinicius Junior for praise, highlighting his mental toughness and his contribution to the team's tactical understanding.