According to a report by Madrid Universal on Wednesday October 28, 2026, Jose Mourinho has reinvented Jude Bellingham’s role at Real Madrid by giving the England international greater attacking freedom in the number 10 position.

According to reports, the Portuguese manager believes the midfielder is most effective when operating closer to the opposition goal, where he can create chances and score without excessive defensive responsibilities.

Bellingham has experienced different tactical roles under previous Real Madrid managers. Carlo Ancelotti deployed him closer to the forward line, while Xabi Alonso viewed him primarily as a midfielder. Mourinho, however, has adopted a different approach to maximise the 23-year-old’s attacking qualities.

The former Chelsea and Manchester United manager believes Bellingham can influence matches in several areas. Nevertheless, he considers the midfielder’s abilities most valuable when he occupies dangerous attacking positions. This allows Bellingham to connect attacking moves, exploit spaces and arrive in goalscoring positions.

Mourinho has also reduced some of the defensive responsibilities that affected Bellingham during the previous two seasons. The intention is not to eliminate his defensive duties but to prevent them from limiting his contributions in the final third.

Beyond his technical qualities, Bellingham’s leadership and mentality have reportedly strengthened his relationship with Mourinho. His competitive attitude, impressive training standards and willingness to understand tactical decisions have helped establish a strong working relationship between the pair.

The England international also seeks to understand the reasoning behind training exercises and in-game decisions at Valdebebas. His regular tactical discussions with Mourinho reflect his desire to improve himself and help his teammates perform better.

Bellingham’s attacking influence is reflected in his three goals and three assists this season. Although the Clasico represented an exception to his increased attacking freedom, Mourinho’s overall strategy remains focused on maximising his offensive contribution.

The Portuguese coach wants Bellingham to retain his competitive edge while benefiting from a role that allows his creativity and goalscoring abilities to flourish.