Jose Mourinho Finds Solution to Fit Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler Together

Jose Mourinho appears to have found an answer to one of the biggest tactical questions surrounding his return to Real Madrid: how to accommodate Jude Bellingham and Arda Guler in the same starting XI.

There had been considerable debate over whether the two midfielders could operate effectively together, given their similarities as attacking No. 10s. However, Mourinho put those concerns to the test in his second debut as Real Madrid manager against Espanyol last weekend.

Madrid secured a 2-1 victory, with Bellingham getting on the scoresheet while Guler produced an impressive display through his movement and creativity. Rather than forcing one of the two players out of the starting lineup, Mourinho appears to have identified a system that allows both to influence the game.

According to Defensa Central, the Portuguese coach has devised a positional adjustment that gives Bellingham and Guler different responsibilities without limiting their attacking freedom.

Bellingham, who is nominally positioned on the left side of Madrid’s attacking structure, could be given more freedom to move into the central No. 10 area. Guler, meanwhile, would begin from the right flank or operate slightly deeper, allowing him to find space between the lines.

The approach would give both players opportunities to occupy their preferred central areas while reducing the risk of them consistently occupying the same spaces.

Mourinho’s solution appears to have come quickly, particularly after questions were raised over whether one of the two attacking midfielders might have to sacrifice his place. Instead, Guler was allowed to play with considerable freedom against Espanyol.

Although he started in a wider role, the Turkey international frequently moved inside and became involved in attacks through the centre. His willingness to drift between positions added another dimension to Madrid’s offensive play.

Guler’s performance also underlined his growing importance to Mourinho’s plans, despite being substituted in the 64th minute. The manager appears to have confidence in the youngster’s tactical flexibility and believes he can perform effectively both from the right and in a more central position.

That versatility could prove especially valuable as Mourinho looks to construct a balanced attacking system around his most technically gifted players.

Bellingham could also eventually be given a more traditional No. 10 role. Speaking to TNT Sports, Mourinho indicated that he is open to using the England international in that position as his tactical plans evolve.

The early signs suggest Mourinho does not intend to choose between Bellingham and Guler. Instead, he appears determined to create a structure in which both can flourish, potentially turning what was once viewed as a tactical problem into one of Real Madrid’s greatest strengths.