New Real Madrid coach José Mourinho has criticised summer signing Bernardo Silva‘s fitness and said he needs to improve after returning for preseason out of shape.
Silva, 31, joined Madrid on a free transfer after his contract with Manchester City expired at the end of last season.
The Portugal midfielder made his first appearance for Los Blancos in Saturday’s 2-1 friendly win over Ferencvaros in Budapest, coming on as a substitute at half-time.
“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 after the game.
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“It does him good [mentally] during his time off to not do anything, so he’s come back in a poor physical shape — he has to improve.”
As a result of Silva’s lack of fitness, Mourinho pushed him into the No.10 position as goals from Mario Rivas and Carlos Espí gave Madrid victory in Hungary.
“Bernardo is a tremendous player,” Mourinho 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 of four positions.”
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Silva was delighted to have made his debut for his new club, although he also conceded there is plenty to work on before the new LaLiga campaign begins at Espanyol on Aug. 21.
“It’s only the first week, but I’m very happy,” he 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.”
