Mourinho Targets Best Version of Bellingham

Last season was not easy for Jude Bellingham, as the English player failed to connect with Xabi Alonso as expected, resulting in increasing tension between the two due to differing football philosophies.

Bellingham was unable to deliver his best performances during that period, before his fortunes changed later with Arbeloa. He then excelled with the England national team at the World Cup, where he was one of his team's standout players and among the tournament's top scorers, before returning to Real Madrid under José Mourinho.

Bellingham featured against Espanyol despite not being at his peak physical condition, but he put in a solid display for 79 minutes, scoring the opening goal and showcasing a level of play reminiscent of his best moments with Real Madrid since his arrival in the summer of 2023.

After the match, Mourinho confirmed that Jude Bellingham's best position is near the attackers, stating: "For me, this is his position; he is the link with the forwards. He is a player with the ability to score and should play in a position close to the goal."

Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti stated: "He can play in the 6 or 8 position, but if we put him there, we lose his proximity to the goal. I love Bellingham, who, when in top physical condition, gives you 90 minutes of work, quality, and goal-scoring opportunities."

Mourinho believes that moving Bellingham back to this position will require him to rearrange some pieces within the team, especially with players like Bernardo Silva, Arda Güler, and Ibrahim Díaz who prefer to operate in similar areas.

However, it seems that Mourinho's priority is clear, as he believes that securing the best version of Bellingham for Real Madrid makes the decision definitive, even if it requires a reshuffling of roles within the lineup.