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Jose Mourinho sets preferred midfield pairing at Real Madrid ahead of season

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Aug 20, 2026, 7:20 AM

Last updated Aug 20, 2026

Jose Mourinho sets preferred midfield pairing at Real Madrid ahead of season

Summary

Jose Mourinho has indicated his preferred midfield duo for Real Madrid as he prepares for the upcoming season. Aurelien Tchouameni and new signing Bernardo Silva are anticipated to form the double pivot in a 4-2-3-1 formation. This decision follows a significant summer of signings and departures, wherein Madrid look to redefine their midfield strategy. The pairing aims to blend Tchouameni's defensive capabilities with Silva's ball control, crucial for connecting with attacking players like Kylian Mbappe and Jude Bellingham. Questions remain regarding other midfield roles, particularly for Arda Guler, who may face competition for a starting position.

Source Links

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By the Numbers

•Mourinho prefers Tchouameni and Silva as central midfielders.
•A busy summer has seen six new signings for Real Madrid.
•The team plans to use a 4-2-3-1 formation.
•Arda Guler's role in the squad is uncertain.
•Defensive setup appears more settled with new signings.

Latest Updates

7:20 AMYahoo Sports — Jose Mourinho identifies his preferred pivot pairing at Real Madrid – report

What they're saying

"
Journalist Roberto Morales believes Jose Mourinho has already given a strong indication of how he wants his new-look midfield to operate.After a busy summer that has brought six new signings and sever...
— Yahoo Sports

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