Diomande makes quiet debut for Real Madrid

Diomande played his first minutes for Real Madrid in a friendly match against Schalke 04, which the Whites won comfortably (0-3). The Ivorian winger, who arrived for €125 million (rising to €140 million with add-ons), took the pitch in the 61st minute.

The forward was positioned on the right flank of Madrid's attack, but according to Mundo Deportivo, his performance in the offensive phase proved rather subdued. While he showed glimpses of his quality, he failed to trouble the German defence or produce the standout moments expected of a signing of his calibre.

Stronger in defence than attack

He was noticeably more active in defensive duties. Diomande recovered five balls and proved instrumental in helping to contain the opposition's play. However, his arrival at Madrid responds to the need for a difference-maker in attack—an area where he clearly has room to improve after this opening display.