Ivorian Yan Diomande, a first-team football player at Real Madrid Club, spoke about several matters regarding his joining the royal club and highlighted his ambitions for the upcoming period.
Yan Diomande signed a seven-year contract to join Real Madrid, ending in 2033, in a deal worth €140 million, making it the most expensive transfer in the history of the Spanish club.
Yan Diomande said in statements to the Spanish newspaper "Marca": "Growing up in Abidjan made football everything to me; we played on any ground we could find, without proper shoes or a suitable pitch. We played football simply because we loved it."
He added: "That passion and joy never left me; they are the foundation of my playing style today."
He continued: "Becoming a footballer was always my dream, but it started to feel real when I was at the DME Academy in Florida, and European scouts began noticing me. However, adapting wasn't easy."
He further stated: "It was extremely difficult at first; I couldn't communicate with anyone, and everything was different. But football became my language, and my teammates helped me find my place both on and off the pitch."
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He went on: "Winning the Bundesliga Young Player of the Year award in my first full season proved that all the sacrifices my family and I made were worthwhile."
He elaborated: "Leipzig taught me how to compete at the highest level week after week. The coaching staff demanded that I improve every detail of my performance. That season gave me the confidence and mindset I will need at Real Madrid."
Regarding wearing the Real Madrid jersey, he said: "My childhood dream has come true; it's everything I've worked for. I'm eager to write my own chapter at this club and contribute to its success."
On participating in the World Cup with Côte d'Ivoire, he stated: "Representing my country on the global stage taught me that competing at the highest levels requires utmost calmness. You must trust your preparations. Off the pitch, sharing this experience with my nation and family is something I will always cherish in my memory."
On training alongside Vinícius and Mbappé, he remarked: "It's amazing. In every training session, the performance level is so high that you have no choice but to elevate your own game."
He continued: "You learn something new just by watching their movements, their way of thinking, and how they prepare every day."
He concluded: "I am a very quiet person. I enjoy spending time with my family and friends, listening to music, and calling my loved ones in Abidjan. Maintaining this connection to my roots keeps me fully focused."
