Diomande makes bold Mourinho vow ahead of Real Madrid debut

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Real Madrid’s marquee signing Yan Diomande has declared his readiness to give everything for Jose Mourinho, underlining the strong bond he believes develops between players and the Portuguese manager.

The Ivorian forward, who joined Madrid from RB Leipzig in a deal worth up to €140 million, spoke ahead of Mourinho’s first competitive match since beginning his second spell in charge of the Spanish giants.

Diomande was quoted by Fabrizio Romano as saying: “When you play for José Mourinho, you want to DIE for him. I am ready to die for him.”

The teenager’s comments offer an early glimpse into his admiration for Mourinho as the manager begins the task of rebuilding Madrid following a trophyless campaign last season.

Mourinho has already been backed significantly in the transfer market, with Diomande among the high profile arrivals expected to play an important role in his new-look squad.

Despite the huge financial commitment involved in his move, Diomande insists the transfer fee will not weigh on him as he attempts to establish himself at the Santiago Bernabéu.

“They spent a lot of money because they believe in me; why will I be scared?” he said.

“I’m not scared; I feel no pressure. I will do what I do, and God will do the rest.”

Madrid completed the signing of the Ivory Coast international from RB Leipzig for a fee that could rise to €140m (£120m), with the highly rated youngster signing a seven-year contract.

The scale of the investment has inevitably raised expectations, but Diomande appears determined to treat the price tag as evidence of the club’s faith in his ability rather than a burden.

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Diomande’s comments come as Mourinho prepares for his first competitive game of his second spell at Real Madrid, with Los Blancos travelling to face Espanyol.

The hosts began their campaign impressively with a 3-0 victory over Levante, while Madrid enter the new season with expectations of an immediate improvement under their returning manager.

Mourinho has won his first game in charge of a new club in each of his previous six appointments, and he will be looking to extend that sequence in Barcelona.