Real Madrid spent a lot of money to sign Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig back in the summer, and the Ivory Coast winger has made quite an impression at his new club.
He is catching the eye with his ability to beat defenders, with new statistics revealing that the youngster has outperformed Vinicius Junior in successful dribbles this season.
According to MARCA, Diomande has completed 47 successful dribbles in just 565 minutes, compared to Vinicius’ 38 in 800 minutes.
The difference appears even more striking when their respective success rates are considered.
Diomande leads Vinicius in dribbling efficiency
Diomande has registered a 66 percent dribbling success rate, considerably higher than Vinicius’ 42 percent.
Despite playing 235 fewer minutes, the youngster has completed nine more dribbles than his Brazilian teammate.
The difference is also reflected in their output per 90 minutes. Diomande averages approximately 7.5 successful dribbles per 90 minutes, compared to Vinicius’ 4.3.
Yan Diomande has performed very well since joining Real Madrid. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
That represents a substantial advantage for the youngster, who has demonstrated both the confidence to attack defenders and the ability to execute those actions successfully.
Vinicius, meanwhile, remains one of Madrid’s most dangerous attacking players, but his lower efficiency suggests he has not been at his sharpest in one-on-one situations.
Mourinho has an interesting selection dilemma
For Jose Mourinho, Diomande’s numbers provide another reason to consider the youngster for a prominent role in Madrid’s attack.
His willingness to take defenders on can help Madrid create space, disrupt defensive structures and generate opportunities in dangerous areas.
With El Clasico approaching, that directness could become particularly valuable against Barcelona’s aggressive defensive approach.
With Vinicius unavailable for the Clasico later this weekend, Madrid can fully trust Diomande in the game.
However, going forward, the Brazilian will have to step up and match the Ivory Coast winger’s exploits to retain his place in the team.
Jose Mourinho has an important decision to make in the long run. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
In terms of experience, there is no comparison. Vinicius brings the know-how gained from playing in big games and contributing to Madrid’s cause.
He may be going through a difficult moment right now, but for a player of his quality, Mourinho should continue trusting Vinicius.
It remains to be seen how the competition between Diomande and Vinicius pans out through the course of the campaign.