Yan Diomande has opened up on his decision to reject Chelsea and believes it was the right decision.
The RB Leipzig winger turned down a move to Chelsea in 2024, instead favouring a switch to Spanish side Leganes. He made 10 La Liga appearances for Leganes last season, but could not help the club avoid relegation, before signing for Leipzig in the summer.
This season, the 19-year-old has had a breakout season to emerge as one of Europe’s most coveted talents.
Diomande has scored eight goals in the Bundesliga and added five assists, with top clubs around Europe considering big bids in the summer. Liverpool, Bayern Munich and Manchester United have all been heavily linked.
He also made his Ivory Coast debut last year and has since scored three goals in nine caps for the national team.
Speaking to RBLive, Diomande discussed his decision to reject Chelsea and said the pursuit of immediate first-team football has helped his rapid rise.
“A lot of people told me I absolutely had to play for Chelsea. Then I stopped everything and made a decision for myself,” he said.
“I knew the president of Leganes; he had helped with my move to the USA. Suddenly, I was faced with a choice: Leganes or Chelsea? It was risky, but luckily, it was the right decision. I think patience is very important in football. It’s not always just about money.
“If you play well, it will come naturally. I’m young; I need to play to increase my sporting value, to improve. And I wouldn’t get that on the bench.”
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