Jose Mourinho has urged Bernardo Silva to improve his fitness after revealing the Real Madrid midfielder returned for pre-season “in a poor physical shape.”
Silva made his first appearance for Los Blancos in Saturday’s 2-1 friendly win over Ferencvaros after joining the Spanish giants on a free transfer following the expiry of his Manchester City contract.
The Portugal international came off the bench at half-time in Budapest, but Mourinho admitted the 31-year-old is still some way short of full fitness after his summer break.
“Bernardo is a really important player for us, but the poor guy is another one who benefits from not doing anything when they’re on holiday,” Mourinho said.
“It does him good during his time off to not do anything, so he’s come back in a poor physical shape – he has to improve.”
Mourinho also explained why he altered Silva’s position during the second half, moving him further forward because of concerns over his physical condition.
“Bernardo is a tremendous player,” he added.
“He can help us build up play if he plays deeper, as a No.6 or a No.8.
“But, during the game, I realised he was lacking a little physical strength, so I moved him forward to the No.10 position. He can play in three or four positions.”
Madrid win but work to be done
Goals from Mario Rivas and Carlos Espi secured victory for Real Madrid in Hungary, with Silva making his unofficial debut following his arrival in the Spanish capital.
The midfielder was pleased to get his first minutes under his belt and believes he will be ready by the time Madrid begin their La Liga campaign against Espanyol later this month.
“It’s only the first week, but I’m very happy,” Silva told Real Madrid TV.
“There are still many things to improve, but the most important thing is to gain rhythm to start the season well.
“It’s been a tough first week, but I am very happy to have got going and made my debut for Madrid.”
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