Real Madrid pursued Silva during the summer despite reports that Atlético Madrid were also interested. Mourinho wanted a versatile player capable of operating in several positions, retaining possession under pressure and bringing order to the team’s build-up.
The departure of Dani Ceballos had also left a gap in midfield, but Silva has so far failed to become the solution Madrid hoped to find.
A difficult start has seen the 32-year-old fall down the pecking order. After initially being used by Mourinho, he has not started since the league match against Rayo Vallecano on September 12. His subsequent involvement has been limited to eight minutes in the derby, with no appearances against Villarreal or Elche.
Silva’s lack of playing time has extended beyond club football. During Portugal’s four Nations League victories over the international break, he featured for only seven minutes across the two matches against Norway, while remaining unused against Wales and Denmark.
Mourinho initially considered Silva as an option alongside Federico Valverde in a double pivot. The Portuguese offers technical control and passing range, but does not provide the same physical drive as the Uruguayan. The partnership has not developed into a regular solution.
Another possibility would be to deploy Silva further forward as an attacking midfielder or an interior, closer to the opposition penalty area. So far, however, those opportunities have been limited, with his appearances generally coming as a substitute when Madrid have needed an attacking change.
Mourinho publicly questioned Silva’s condition during pre-season, suggesting that the midfielder had returned from his holidays short of fitness. With a substantial portion of the campaign now completed, that explanation is becoming less convincing as a reason for his continued absence from the starting line-up.
The coach nevertheless appears willing to give Silva time to recover his best form. His options in attack are limited by the emergence of Diomande, who has strengthened his claim for a place alongside Vinícius Júnior and Kylian Mbappé.
Silva’s experience in the Champions League could yet prove valuable as Madrid look to improve their performances in Europe. However, his immediate opportunities are complicated by suspension for the upcoming fixture in Rome.
For a player who arrived with a reputation built on years of success at Manchester City, the challenge is now to turn technical quality and experience into a regular place in Mourinho’s plans.