Real Madrid head coach Jose Mourinho expressed concern regarding new signing Bernardo Silva’s physical fitness following the team’s 2-1 friendly victory over Hungarian side Ferencvaros TC.
The 31-year-old Portuguese international joined Los Blancos in June on a free transfer following the end of his contract at Manchester City. The move comes as part of a major squad overhaul under Mourinho, who returned to the Bernabeu bench for a second spell after previously managing the Spanish giants from 2010 to 2013.
Although Bernardo was a priority target for Mourinho, the manager voiced dissatisfaction with the player’s current physical state following his summer break.
“He is one of those for whom it does them psychological good to do absolutely nothing on holiday, and he came into pre-season in significantly worse physical condition. He has to improve there,” said Mourinho on the club’s own TV channel.
Bernardo came on for Brahim Diaz at the half-time break. Real Madrid already held the advantage before Carlos Espi extended the lead to 2-0 in the 49th minute.
Mourinho hails Bernardo Silva’s tactical adaptability
Despite the fitness concerns, Mourinho lauded Bernardo Silva’s tactical adaptability, praising his capacity to adjust positions during matches.
“He is a great player who helps us in build-up play when he plays deeper, for example as a number six or number eight. During the game I noticed that he was lacking a bit of physical strength, and I moved him forward into the number 10 role. He can play there as well. He can be used in three or four positions.”
The result marked Real Madrid’s first victory of their pre-season campaign, following an initial 2-2 draw against Fiorentina. Los Blancos face Deportivo La Coruna in their next friendly on Wednesday before playing FC Schalke 04 on Sunday. They open their La Liga season against Espanyol on August 22.
Bernardo Silva is one of many players that Real Madrid have signed this summer, including Denzel Dumfries, Marc Cucurella, Ibrahima Konate, Yan Diomande and Carlos Espi. The Madrid giants are trophyless for the last two seasons and would hope their fortunes change under Jose Mourinho.
(With inputs from ANI)
