Bellingham Thrives in New No. 10 Role at Real Madrid as Mourinho Cuts His Running
Updated
Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 17
Bellingham Thrives in New No. 10 Role at Real Madrid as Mourinho Cuts His Running
3 articles · Updated · Yahoo Sports · Sep 17
Summary
Jude Bellingham has responded strongly to Jose Mourinho's early changes at Real Madrid, with club sources saying the midfielder is happier, sharper and closer to his best.
Mourinho has pushed the England international into a freer No. 10 role closer to goal, reducing his running load and letting him focus more on attacking phases.
Real Madrid staff have also been impressed by Bellingham's discipline off the pitch, describing him as the club's most disciplined player for his recovery work and gym sessions.
The shift follows a difficult 2025/26 season marked by inconsistency, injuries and a shoulder problem after a standout first campaign raised expectations.
That tactical and psychological reset has made Bellingham one of Madrid's main hopes heading into Sunday's derby against Atletico Madrid.