Real Madrid manager José Mourinho has explained the importance of Bernardo Silva to his midfield plans, emphasising that selecting players with complementary qualities is essential to achieving the right tactical balance and improving the team’s overall performance.

According to a report by Madrid Universal, Mourinho discussed Bernardo’s role following Real Madrid’s reported 2-1 victory over Barcelona in El Clasico. The Portuguese coach highlighted the midfielder’s ongoing adjustment to the squad and explained why building an effective midfield requires more than simply bringing together technically gifted players.

Bernardo started the encounter in central midfield and played for 75 minutes before making way for Eduardo Camavinga. The Frenchman subsequently provided the assist for Kylian Mbappé’s late winning goal, illustrating how substitutions and the availability of different player profiles can influence the outcome of high-pressure matches.

Reflecting on Bernardo’s progress, Mourinho acknowledged that recognising a player’s individual abilities does not necessarily mean that the player will immediately fit perfectly into a new tactical system. He stressed that managers must allow time to understand how individuals operate alongside their teammates and determine which combinations deliver the strongest overall performance.

“Regarding Bernardo’s situation, I’ve said that he’s been here for a little over three months,” Mourinho said.

The manager’s comments suggest that Bernardo’s contribution is being assessed within the wider context of the team rather than solely through his technical qualities. His close control, intelligent movement and composure in possession can help Madrid maintain control of the ball and create opportunities against opponents who defend in organised formations. However, the effectiveness of those strengths also depends on the responsibilities assigned to his midfield partners.

Mourinho explained that he prefers a midfield built around players who offer different attributes instead of pairing individuals whose strengths and responsibilities closely resemble one another.

“I’ve learned that in midfield, having a combination of talents gives us more than having two players with similar characteristics,” he explained.

The Portuguese coach also indicated that a double pivot featuring Bernardo alongside Arda Güler would not be his preferred arrangement, although circumstances could occasionally make such a combination necessary. His priority is to ensure that the midfield can contribute effectively in possession while remaining sufficiently organised to protect the defence when the team loses the ball.

“I prefer this combination of talents, which gives us balance when defending and more quality when launching attacks,” Mourinho added.

This approach could increase the importance of players such as Camavinga and Aurélien Tchouaméni, whose physical presence and defensive capabilities can help provide cover for more attack-minded teammates. Güler, meanwhile, offers additional creativity and the ability to advance play when Madrid need to penetrate compact defensive lines.

Finding the right combination is particularly important in major fixtures, where small tactical differences can determine the outcome. A midfield that lacks defensive protection may leave the backline exposed, while one without sufficient creativity could struggle to create scoring opportunities.

Mourinho’s explanation therefore reflects his intention to develop a balanced midfield in which each player contributes a distinct quality. Bernardo remains an option because of his technical ability and experience, but his role will depend on how effectively he complements the other available midfielders and supports Madrid’s wider tactical objectives.