Diomande says Mourinho’s 5am call helped secure Real Madrid move

Real Madrid’s new signing Diomande has revealed that Jose Mourinho rose at 5am to speak with him during negotiations over the winger’s move from RB Leipzig. The personal effort helped show the teenager how strongly Madrid wanted him.

Madrid agreed to pay Leipzig €140 million, around £120 million, for the Ivorian after several weeks of discussions. The transfer followed Diomande’s outstanding season in Germany and has made him one of the most highly valued young players in Europe.

Diomande, 19, said joining Madrid fulfilled a long-held ambition. He was surprised that the Spanish club had shown such direct interest and was also struck by the involvement of Mourinho, who spoke to him in French during their discussions.

The winger’s route to Madrid began with contact involving Juni Calafat before he spoke with the coach. Mourinho’s early-morning call became a major moment in the decision, with Diomande taking it as evidence that his role at the La Liga champions mattered.

He now joins a squad that includes Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. His ability to operate in different positions and his progress in Germany have positioned him as an important addition as Madrid pursue success in domestic competition and Europe this season.

Diomande has described the move as both a source of pride and the completion of a dream. Despite the attention surrounding the fee and his status as one of Europe’s most sought-after talents, the teenager said his focus remained on beginning life at the club he had always wanted to represent.