Bernardo Silva has become a key part of Jose Mourinho’s plans at Real Madrid after being moved into a deeper midfield role to restore balance following the end of the Toni Kroos and Luka Modric era.
The Portugal international’s influence was particularly evident in the victory over Barcelona at Camp Nou, where his pressing, movement and composure helped Real Madrid limit the impact of the home side’s midfield. His emergence follows a gradual process in which Mourinho waited for Silva to reach the required physical condition before making him a regular starter.
According to Spanish newspaper Marca, Mourinho recognised that Silva’s value did not necessarily lie in using him in a conventional attacking position. Instead, the manager has deployed him alongside Federico Valverde and Aurelien Tchouameni, giving him greater responsibility in possession, during build-up play and when Real Madrid are attempting to regain the ball.
The role demands constant movement between the lines, significant defensive work and the ability to compete in crowded areas of the pitch. Mourinho therefore resisted rushing Silva into the starting XI, despite having attacking options who offer greater pace and physical strength.
There had been concerns that Barcelona would dominate through a midfield that is one of their main strengths. However, Real Madrid’s organisation at Camp Nou reduced the home side’s influence in key areas, with Silva among the players responsible for disrupting their rhythm.
Silva’s defensive contribution
Silva’s defensive discipline was one of the most notable features of his performance. He pressed intensely and covered space effectively, while also closing passing lanes to Rodri and Pedri to prevent them from dictating the tempo or building attacks comfortably.
His contribution extended beyond defensive duties. His movement and ability to retain possession under pressure gave Real Madrid a more reliable route out from the back, while also reducing the burden on Tchouameni by sharing responsibility for progressing the ball and providing additional passing options.
Mourinho had said during pre-season that Silva needed more time to reach his best level after returning from the holidays short of full fitness. That patience now appears to be producing results, with the midfielder able to carry out the demanding instructions required by his manager.
The possession figures underline his effect. Real Madrid average 57% possession when Silva is on the pitch, compared with 47% when he is absent. The team’s overall season average is 52%.
Real Madrid had 62% possession against Leipzig, while they recorded 46% against Roma, where Silva played only the final 20 minutes. The Camp Nou match was an exception, with Real Madrid holding just 37% of the ball, but they still achieved their objective and secured a positive result.
A solution already in the squad
Real Madrid did not sign Rodri or another midfielder with similar characteristics, leaving Silva as one of Mourinho’s leading options for reshaping the position.
The manager initially viewed Silva’s versatility as an asset in advanced areas, behind the striker or on the wings. His latest deployment has revealed a different use, giving the team defensive discipline and greater control while also allowing Arda Guler more freedom in attacking areas, as seen against Barcelona.
Silva may therefore provide the balance Real Madrid have been missing: technical quality and ball retention combined with tactical discipline, defensive effort and the ability to connect the team’s different lines.
