Arda Guler and Jose Mourinho of Real Madrid
Photo by Christian Bruna/Getty Images
Jose Mourinho has identified the four players he wants to take greater responsibility for Real Madrid’s build-up play as he looks to address one of the team’s recurring weaknesses.
According to Defensa Central, the Portuguese coach has used the international break to work on improving how Madrid progress the ball from defence.
On that note, his solution involves giving greater responsibility to Arda Guler, Bernardo Silva, Jude Bellingham and Federico Valverde.
The plan places particular importance on supporting Valverde when opponents attempt to press Madrid aggressively.
Mourinho wants Guler, Silva, Bellingham and Valverde involved
Mourinho believes the four midfielders possess the technical qualities required to help Madrid escape pressure and move the ball forward more effectively.
Federico Valverde, Real Madrid player
Valverde will be the undisputed starter for Mourinho. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
That means they will be expected to drop deeper at different stages of possession, with Guler and Bellingham particularly important because they normally operate higher up the pitch.
The objective is to create more passing options around the first line of pressure rather than leaving Valverde to deal with opposition pressure on his own.
Tchouameni left out of Mourinho’s build-up plan
One notable aspect of the approach is the reduced responsibility given to Aurelien Tchouameni.
Despite operating as Madrid’s defensive midfielder, the Frenchman is not considered by Mourinho to be the player who should carry the main burden of controlling possession when opponents press high.
Instead, Valverde is expected to remain the undisputed starter in the double pivot, with Guler and Bernardo Silva providing additional support during the initial stages of attacks.
Arda Guler, Jude Bellingham, Real Madrid players
Bellingham and Guler’s roles will be crucial. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)
That structure would allow Madrid to distribute the responsibility across several technically capable players rather than depending on one midfielder to dictate the first phase.
Bellingham given advanced role in possession
Further forward, Mourinho wants Bellingham to operate in a staggered position that gives the midfield a strong passing option.
Simply put, if the opposition blocks one route forward, the team should have another player available to receive the ball and continue the move forward.
This could help the team avoid becoming predictable when facing intense pressure, while also giving Valverde greater support in the deeper areas.
Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid
Photo courtesy: Real Madrid official website
Brahim Diaz, Real Madrid player
AC Milan and Galatasaray are interested in Brahim Diaz. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)
Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid
Juventus have also been credited with an interest in the Real Madrid star. (Photo by Fran Santiago/Getty Images)