Real Madrid’s decision to use Bernardo Silva as a defensive midfielder lasted only 18 minutes in their 2-1 friendly win over Ferencvaros, offering little evidence that the position can be filled internally after Rodri rejected a move to the Spanish club.
The match was not considered enough to draw definitive conclusions, but there had been considerable interest in how manager Jose Mourinho would address Real Madrid’s long-standing need for a holding midfielder following Toni Kroos’ retirement.
Rodri, currently with Manchester City, turned down Real Madrid’s proposal during the previous week. In the aftermath, people close to the club reportedly sent a clear message, according to Mundo Deportivo: Real Madrid would not sign another player for the role and Bernardo Silva would be used there when required.
That made the Portugal international’s first appearance in a Real Madrid shirt particularly significant. He came on at half-time for Eduardo Camavinga and was deployed in a double-pivot midfield alongside Federico Valverde.
However, the experiment was short-lived. In the 63rd minute, Jorge Cestero replaced Bernardo Silva in the deeper role, while Mourinho moved the Portuguese midfielder further forward into the number 10 position.
The manager said Bernardo Silva’s physical condition influenced the decision after the game.
“This poor player benefits psychologically from resting during the holidays. He appeared in much worse physical condition. He needs to develop his skills. But Bernardo is a great player, because he gives us attacking options from deep if he plays in an advanced position, such as a number 10 or a striker,” Mourinho said.
He added: “During the match, I noticed that he lacked some physical strength, so I moved him to the centre-forward position. I brought on Cestero to provide more stability. The centre-forward position is another one Bernardo can play well in. He is a player capable of playing in three or four positions.”
The brief trial does not necessarily rule out another attempt to use Bernardo Silva in midfield during Real Madrid’s remaining pre-season fixtures. Mourinho may continue to assess the option, particularly with the club yet to bring in a replacement for the defensive midfield role left vacant by Kroos’ retirement.
For now, the position is occupied by the same group of players who featured there last season: Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni and Camavinga. That line-up is expected to remain in place unless Real Madrid change their plans and complete a signing before the transfer window closes.
Bernardo Silva’s appearance therefore provided Mourinho with another possible tactical solution, but his time as a holding midfielder was limited. After only 18 minutes in the role, Real Madrid’s search for a dependable answer to their midfield problem remains unresolved.
