Bernardo Silva switch highlights Real Madrid’s midfield dilemma after Rodri rejection

Real Madrid’s attempt to find a solution to their defensive midfield problem lasted just 18 minutes in a 2-1 friendly win over Ferencvaros, as Bernardo Silva was moved into a more advanced role after struggling physically.

No definitive conclusions can be drawn from a pre-season match, but the game attracted particular attention after Rodri rejected the chance to sign for Real Madrid the previous week. The Spain and Manchester City midfielder had been viewed as a potential answer to the vacancy left by Toni Kroos’ retirement.

Rodri’s decision prompted those close to Real Madrid to communicate that the club was not planning to sign anyone for the position, according to Mundo Deportivo. Instead, Bernardo Silva would be expected to perform the role on occasions when required.

That made the Portugal international’s first appearance in a Real Madrid shirt especially significant. He came on at half-time for Eduardo Camavinga and initially operated in a double-pivot midfield alongside Federico Valverde.

The experiment was short-lived. In the 63rd minute, Jorge Cistero replaced Bernardo Silva in the deeper position, while Jose Mourinho pushed the Portuguese midfielder forward into the number 10 role because of his lack of match fitness.

Mourinho explained the decision after the final whistle.

“This poor player benefits psychologically from resting during the holidays. He appeared in much worse physical condition. He needs to improve his skills. But Bernardo is a great player, as he gives us attacking options from deep if he plays as a number 10 or a forward,” he said.

The manager added: “During the match, I noticed that he lacked some physical strength, so I moved him into the centre-forward position. I brought on Cistero to provide more stability. The centre-forward position is another role Bernardo can play well in. He is a player capable of occupying three or four positions.”

Bernardo Silva’s brief spell as a holding midfielder therefore offered little evidence that he can immediately resolve the issue facing Mourinho. The position remains one currently occupied by Valverde, Aurelien Tchouameni and Camavinga, the same group that formed Real Madrid’s options last season.

It remains to be seen whether Mourinho will use Bernardo Silva again as a midfield alternative in Real Madrid’s remaining friendly matches. The club’s plans could still change if they complete a signing before the transfer window closes, but for now the midfield structure appears unchanged following Rodri’s refusal.

The 2-1 victory over Ferencvaros provided a positive result, yet the most closely watched tactical experiment produced an early adjustment rather than a settled answer.