As pre-season is underway, speculation is rising regarding how Jose Mourinho will configure his Real Madrid squad.

Recent insights from journalist Ramon Alvarez de Mon suggest that competition for positions may result in one veteran player losing his place in the starting lineup.

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According to Defensa Central, Mourinho plans to favor Ibrahima Konate and Dean Huijsen in central defense, potentially relegating Antonio Rudiger to a backup role.

Konate and Huijsen to be Mourinho’s First-Choice

Alvarez de Mon believes that Real Madrid’s defensive setup could see significant revisions at the start of the new season.

He proposes that Konate and Huijsen are likely to partner in the center of defense, with Rudiger stepping back to provide competition rather than leading the line as he has in the past.

Rudiger could lose his place under Mourinho. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Getty Images)

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“In defence, Konate and Huijsen will play in front of Rudiger and Bernardo Silva will be a midfielder alongside Tchouameni,” he said.

If accurate, this would mark a clear shift from last season.

This is noteworthy, as Huijsen may have experienced an inconsistent first season in Madrid, though the coaching staff recognizes his potential as a future leader.

Alongside him, Konate, known for his physicality and aerial strength, offers a different skill set that could enhance the team’s defensive cohesion.

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What About Bernardo Silva?

Bernardo Silva will play a deeper role under Mourinho. (Photo by Leonardo Fernandez/Getty Images)

Alvarez de Mon also notes that Mourinho may adjust his tactics regarding Bernardo Silva.

Instead of deploying the Portuguese playmaker in advanced roles, he could use him in a deeper midfield role alongside Aurelien Tchouameni, focusing on midfield control.

If this tactic is employed, Madrid’s midfield could effectively combine Tchouameni’s defensive prowess with Bernardo’s skill in maintaining possession, providing Mourinho with an additional strategy to tackle elite teams.

Ultimately, the success of these plans will hinge on player performances during pre-season, allowing each athlete a chance to affect the manager’s choices.