Mourinho Criticizes Bernardo Silva's Fitness After Real Madrid Debut

Real Madrid manager Jose Mourinho has publicly criticized the fitness of new signing Bernardo Silva following the midfielder's debut for the club. The Portuguese international made his first appearance in a 2-1 preseason victory over Ferencvaros in Budapest on Saturday, August 8, 2026, coming on as a second-half substitute.

Mourinho stated that Silva, who joined on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired, returned for preseason training in poor physical condition. The manager explained that Silva benefits mentally from disconnecting completely during his vacation and does not do any work, which resulted in him arriving at a low physical level. "He has to improve," Mourinho said, though he also praised Silva as an "incredible player" and a "wonderful player."

The manager revealed he had to adjust Silva's role during the match due to his lack of sharpness. Mourinho moved Silva from a deeper midfield position to a more advanced No. 10 role after noticing he was lacking physical strength. "He can play in three or four positions," Mourinho added, highlighting the player's versatility.

Silva, 31, arrived at Real Madrid after nine seasons with Manchester City,...