Mourinho insists Silva must work hard to regain fitness after World Cup break
Real Madrid coach Jose Mourinho says new signing Bernardo Silva needs to work hard to regain optimal fitness after returning from vacation following the 2026 World Cup. Silva, who joined the Spanish giants on a free transfer this summer from Manchester City, came back "WAY BELOW" his usual physical standards according to Mourinho.
The 31-year-old Portugal international enjoyed nine successful seasons at City, scoring 76 goals in 460 appearances and contributing to their 2022-23 treble. At the World Cup in North America, Portugal was eliminated 1-0 by eventual champions Spain in the Round of 16.
Mourinho acknowledged Silva's importance but stressed he must exert considerable effort: "Bernardo Silva? He’s a very important player for us. But the poor guy, when he goes on vacation, he likes to disconnect completely. He doesn’t do any work, so he came on a physical level WAY BELOW his usual standards. He needs to work hard now."
Silva has signed a two-year contract with Real Madrid as he begins the next phase of his career after leaving Etihad Stadium.
Will Silva bounce back quickly to Mourinho’s expectations, or will his fitness struggles affect Real Madrid’s early season push in La Liga and the Champions League?