Vinícius Júnior is facing increasing scrutiny at Real Madrid after another underwhelming display, with Yan Diomande strengthening his claim for a regular place in José Mourinho’s starting team. According to Football Transfers on Thursday, November 5, 2026, the Brazilian winger’s recent struggles have raised questions about his influence at the Spanish club, particularly as the young Ivorian continues to impress.

The 26-year-old has endured a frustrating campaign, with his performances falling short of the level that previously established him among Europe’s most dangerous attacking players. He has now gone six consecutive appearances without scoring or registering an assist, increasing pressure on him to rediscover his best form.

His difficulties were particularly noticeable during Wednesday’s Champions League encounter against AEK in Athens. Although Mourinho selected him on the left flank, Vinícius failed to complete a dribble for the third successive match. He attempted only one against the Greek opposition, highlighting his limited effectiveness in one of his strongest areas.

Diomande, by comparison, produced a more encouraging performance despite operating on his less preferred side. The youngster attempted seven dribbles and successfully completed four, demonstrating the confidence and directness that have become important features of his game.

The Ivorian has also developed into one of La Liga’s most productive dribblers. He averages 4.27 successful take-ons per 90 minutes, a figure that places him ahead of Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal and Deportivo La Coruña’s Yeremay in the reported rankings.

Diomande’s recent opportunities have partly resulted from Vinícius serving a four-match suspension in domestic competitions. The youngster used that period to feature in his preferred left-wing position and deliver performances that have attracted attention.

His displays have consequently increased calls for Mourinho to give him more consistent opportunities in the starting eleven. While Vinícius remains an established figure at the club, Diomande’s current form has created greater competition for the attacking position.

The contrasting performances are also reflected in their estimated transfer valuations. FootballTransfers’ November assessment places Vinícius at €99.7 million, representing a decline from his previous valuation of €116.1 million.

Diomande, meanwhile, has seen his estimated value rise to €101.4 million, moving him above the Brazilian. The difference highlights how quickly their respective market assessments have changed amid their contrasting performances.

Former Barcelona defender Samuel Umtiti has expressed concern about Vinícius’ decline, suggesting that the forward has struggled to influence matches for several months.

“I feel sorry for him! He hasn't been at his best for months now! He's struggling with his final touch, he's wasting so many chances - he's no longer a threat,” Umtiti said.

Former Real Madrid goalkeeper Santi Cañizares also questioned whether the Brazilian was delivering performances worthy of his standing and contractual position at the club.

“Vinicius thinks he has a certain status, and contractually he does, but he's incapable of justifying it on the pitch,” he stated.

Despite the criticism, Mourinho has publicly supported his player. Following the AEK match, the Portuguese coach described Vinícius’ contribution as acceptable, although he acknowledged that it was not an exceptional performance.

The manager’s comments suggest that the Brazilian has not lost his backing entirely. However, with Diomande performing well and competition increasing, Vinícius faces growing pressure to improve his attacking contribution and re-establish himself as an automatic selection at Real Madrid.