UEFA Champions League
Bernardo Silva, a 32-year-old Portuguese midfielder, has lost protagonism at Real Madrid under José Mourinho: he only played 8 minutes in the last two LaLiga matches, not participating against Elche and entering in the final stretch of the derby against Atlético. The Portuguese provided an assist to Rüdiger for the 2-1 at the Metropolitano. Silva was acquired by Real Madrid in the transfer market as a free agent after his contract with Manchester City expired.
Bernardo Silva is no longer a priority for Mourinho
Silva's decline coincides with a shift in Mourinho's midfield preferences. The coach again opted for Fede Valverde and Aurélien Tchouaméni as a double pivot against Atlético, after using the same duo against Betis.
The Portuguese did start as a first-choice in the first two matches, against Espanyol and Real Sociedad, but then his presence diminished. In the following five matchdays, he only started against Rayo Vallecano, a match that ended 4-1 in Real Madrid's favor.
The situation is remarkable because Silva intervened in the derby in the final minutes and created Real Madrid's only goal. His pass allowed Antonio Rüdiger to score the 2-1, although Real Madrid ended up losing to Atlético.
So far, Silva has played 6 league matches, 282 minutes, scored 0 goals, and provided 1 assist this season. Additionally, he did not participate against Inter Milan in the Champions League due to suspension.
🚨 Real Madrid’s average possession this season:
— Madrid Xtra (@MadridXtra) September 22, 2026
• Bernardo Silva starting: 57%
• Bernardo Silva benched: 47% pic.twitter.com/o6ILZauxmO
Barcelona emerges as the context for the signing
The situation gains another perspective due to Barcelona's interest during the summer. Silva's contract with Manchester City ended, and he was free to negotiate, but he ultimately chose Real Madrid, where he signed for two seasons.
Barça had explored his signing, but Deco later explained that the deal didn't progress due to financial conditions and the player's expectations regarding playing time. The sports director pointed out that this position was not a priority for the club.
Silva's decision was also influenced by the competition existing in Barcelona's midfield. As the Portuguese sought guarantees of playing time, Barcelona had other alternatives for that area and ended up discarding the operation.
Now, the scenario presents two different realities. Barcelona leads LaLiga at the break, while Real Madrid lost the derby and is six points behind Barcelona after the seventh matchday.
The international break provides a three-week period for Mourinho before the next league fixture. The return of Bernardo Silva to the starting lineup will be a key factor to watch, especially with Valverde being a regular but currently sidelined due to an ankle injury, and Tchouaméni having secured two consecutive starting spots. The upcoming match will reveal if the Portuguese regains prominence or remains in a supporting role.
This news is an automatic translation. You can read the original news, Mourinho se olvida de Bernardo Silva
