I honestly would be overjoyed with either Diomande or Yoro. Both players have elite potential in the mid to long-term and they're the type of profile we have ignored over the years, much to my frustration. I think there's a number of really good options for the RCB spot with players like Todibo, Kossounou, Diomande and Yoro etc being some of those options. But from following Diomande for over a year at SCP, and keeping a close watch on his progress, along with keeping a eye on his statistics. It's clear to see that he's gone up a level when it comes to winning aerial duels, tackling dribblers in 1v1 duels and is more selective in his tackling, which imo shows that he's far more intelligent in how he defends.
Last season his aerial winning percentage was at around 43%, and being 19 years of age at the time, it was hoped he would improve in that regard. But it seems he's improved noticeably in that regard thus far this season where he's winning 69.8% of his aerial duels. That is a clear improvement and he's still only 20 years of age.
He's also shown very clear growth when it comes to tackling dribblers. Last season he managed to stop 52.6% of dribblers in 1v1s duels, but this season it's shot up to 76.9%.
Which is a clear improvement at 20 years of age for a player that is blessed physically, athletically and technically.
His tackling attempts have dropped from 1.93 to 0.84 p90, which further demonstrates that his intelligence and ability to be more passive, along with being the aggressor is something that he's adding to his game and he can be utilised as both the aggressor in the backline or the more passive cover defender. I can't emphasise enough the importance of having this in your locker as a CB. And it shows the players development curve and maturity is something that is being developed on the training pitch.
He's a CB that can be utilised all across the backline imo. He's comfortable on either foot, has great composure and press resisting qualities along with superb passing qualities. And on top of all that he's a real powerhouse who can deal with the opponents high pressing tactics in possession, can deal with opposition low block tactics with balls over the top and can also bully players in 1v1 duels, whilst defending large space in the channel against the opponent's transition. At 20 years of age, he has world class potential and is someone we should be in for.
The likes of Branthwaite and Lucumi are enticing players for the LCB roles at the club. But neither are of the talent level that I believe Diomande or Yoro could reach. But being left footed makes them interesting players to rotate with Martinez, potentially.
