Demichelis hails Diomande ahead of Real Madrid winger’s reunion with RB Leipzig

RB Leipzig coach Martin Demichelis has hailed Yan Diomande’s potential ahead of the 19-year-old winger’s reunion with his former club in Wednesday’s Champions League clash against Real Madrid.

Demichelis had little time to work with Diomande after taking charge of Leipzig in July, with the winger completing a big-money move to Real Madrid shortly afterwards.

Nevertheless, the Argentine has seen enough to be convinced of the youngster’s immense potential.

“I predict a great future for him because his development here was very significant. Leipzig are a club that do a great deal to accelerate the development of young players with enormous potential,” said Demichelis in an interview with AS.

“Football has increasingly moved towards using extremely dangerous wingers who can beat their opponents one-on-one, and Yan is one of those players who currently make a difference. He can play on either flank because he has excellent control of the ball with both feet, as well as outstanding acceleration over very short distances,” he added.

“You also have to appreciate that he is one of the wingers who works hardest defensively. At a great institution like Real Madrid, his development will depend on how he continues to progress. I have no doubt that he will have excellent coaches and teammates, but ultimately, a lot will depend on him and his desire to keep improving.”

Wednesday’s encounter at the Estadio Santiago Bernabéu is also set to see Real Madrid centre-back Ibrahima Konaté face his former club, with kick-off scheduled for 21:00 CEST.