Mourinho notes new Real Madrid signing lacks physical strength after debut
Mourinho assesses Bernardo’s first outing
Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has commented on the physical condition of new signing Bernardo Silva following his debut for the club. Silva made his first appearance in a Real Madrid shirt during a pre-season victory against Ferencváros in Budapest. Mourinho indicated that the Portuguese midfielder is currently behind physically after his summer break, though he expressed confidence in the quality Silva will ultimately bring to the team.
Silva joined Real Madrid on a free transfer earlier this summer after his contract with Manchester City expired. His unofficial debut occurred during the club’s 2-1 pre-season win over Ferencváros. He entered the match at half-time, replacing Brahim Díaz, and played for 48 minutes. Initially, Silva operated in a deeper midfield role before Mourinho shifted him to the No. 10 position during the second half.
Speaking to Real Madrid TV after the match, Mourinho explained that Silva is still working to regain full fitness after returning from his holidays. Mourinho noted that Silva tends to disconnect completely during his vacations, not engaging in any work, which resulted in him arriving for pre-season in a lower physical condition than usual. The coach emphasized that Silva needs to improve his fitness but acknowledged him as a “tremendous player.”
Mourinho’s decision to move Silva further forward in the second half was a deliberate tactical adjustment. He observed that Silva lacked physical strength in the deeper role, prompting the change to the No. 10 position. Mourinho highlighted Silva’s versatility, stating that he can play as a 6, an 8, or a 10, and that having a player capable of performing well in multiple positions is beneficial for a coach.
Bernardo focused on building match fitness
Despite the public assessment of his fitness, Silva has expressed his pride in joining Real Madrid, describing it as an opportunity he could not decline. The Portugal international is now concentrating on achieving full match sharpness in preparation for the upcoming season. His immediate goal is to build his physical rhythm before Real Madrid commences their La Liga campaign with an away fixture against Espanyol later this month.
Mourinho’s approach of openly critiquing players is a known characteristic of his management style, often intended to challenge them to improve. While this method may not suit all players, those who respond positively are often motivated to excel. Silva, embarking on a new challenge after nine years with Manchester City, will be expected to demonstrate the mental fortitude to adapt to this style of management.
Silva’s versatility is seen as a significant asset for Real Madrid. Throughout his career, he has excelled in various positions, primarily as a No. 10 or a wide midfielder. Mourinho is hopeful that, even in his advancing years, Silva can effectively operate in the No. 6 or No. 8 roles when required, provided he achieves the necessary fitness levels.
Squad additions and future midfield plans
Real Madrid has made several significant additions to their squad this summer, including Yan Diomande, Bernardo Silva, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konaté, Denzel Dumfries, and Carlos Espí. However, Mourinho has indicated that he still desires another versatile midfielder to further strengthen the squad.
The coach aims for a compact squad of 20 players, in addition to those currently injured, such as Rodrygo, Éder Militão, and Ferland Mendy. Mourinho emphasized the need for a player who can replicate Silva’s ability to perform across different positions. This desire for another midfielder reportedly intensified after Rodri chose to join Barcelona instead of Real Madrid during the summer transfer window.
Mourinho’s starting midfield trio for the three pre-season matches against Leganés, Fiorentina, and Ferencváros has consisted of Federico Valverde, Eduardo Camavinga, and Arda Güler. The return of Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni, who are also nearing their return following post-World Cup breaks, is expected to provide Mourinho with more midfield options.
Before beginning their league campaign, Real Madrid has additional pre-season fixtures scheduled against Deportivo La Coruña and Schalke 04. While Mourinho believes Silva needs to improve his physical condition, his comments also underscore the value the club places on the experienced midfielder’s versatility and tactical intelligence.
Source: timesofindia.indiatimes.com
