Former Spanish midfielder heaps praise on Real Madrid superstar – “Mourinho has given him freedom”

Real Madrid have made a flawless start to the new season under Jose Mourinho, winning all three of their opening matches.

At the heart of that fine form has been Jude Bellingham, who has rediscovered his best after a couple of injury-hit campaigns.

And former Athletic Bilbao and Spain midfielder Julen Guerrero has been full of praise for the Englishman.

Guerrero lauds Bellingham’s resurgence

Bellingham has been Real Madrid’s star performer so far. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Speaking on Radioestadio (h/t Defensa Central), Guerrero reflected on Real Madrid’s win over Malaga and pointed to Mourinho’s man-management as a key reason behind the team’s upturn.

“I liked Real Madrid, I think they are living in a climate of calm. Mourinho is finding the right positions for each player, and I think that is important. That everyone feels comfortable. For now, everyone is collaborating very well,” Guerrero said.

He was particularly complimentary of Bellingham, whom he believes is thriving thanks to the freedom Mourinho has afforded him.

“Bellingham is a player who did not have a great season last year but who, as I have always said, needs to not be restricted, he needs freedom, and Mourinho has given him that freedom,” he added.

Bellingham needs more freedom

Mourinho has unlocked the best of Bellingham. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

Guerrero went on to explain exactly why that freedom has unlocked the very best version of the England international.

“He has the entire field covered in that attacking midfield role, he can drop to receive, he can appear anywhere on the pitch, he can arrive in the box.

“Right now I think it is the most positive news, that a player as important as Bellingham finds his place,” he said.

“Mourinho is giving him that, and it is producing very good results,” he added.

The former midfielder is convinced that a liberated Bellingham makes Real Madrid a far more difficult side to beat, tipping the 22-year-old to enjoy an extraordinary 2026-27 campaign.

Indeed, Bellingham struggled at times last season, largely due to the awkward positions he was asked to occupy under previous coaching setups.

Now, with Mourinho handing him a free role in the number 10 position, the Englishman looks reborn.