Bellingham has defined the distinction himself in an interview with Actual Madrid TV.
“I really feel extra free to resolve when to drop again, when to remain up or when to get into the field,” he stated. “I feel that is the perfect place for me.”
Mourinho nonetheless expects him to press and get well possession, however the distinction is the place that work begins.
As a substitute of dropping deep in direction of his personal penalty space, Bellingham can now use his power to press opponents increased up the pitch.
When Madrid win the ball, he’s already nearer to the forwards. That enables him to attach midfield with assault and supply one other participant who can mix with Mbappe and Vinicius Jr.
It additionally explains why Mourinho has been eager to emphasize Madrid’s attacking gamers should work collectively relatively than function as people.
“The staff dynamic is about 11, not 2+9,” he stated.
The midfielder additionally described working with Mourinho as a “dream”, having beforehand solely met the previous Chelsea, Manchester United and Tottenham supervisor as soon as earlier than his appointment.
There’s clearly an early understanding and respect between the 2.
Mourinho has repeatedly spoken about Bellingham’s significance to his plans, describing him as a “distinctive and tremendous necessary participant” with qualities that embody bodily, psychological and tactical.
He additionally advised Bellingham must be one of many gamers within the operating for the Ballon d’Or.
“He’s a novel sort of participant and very necessary for the staff,” stated Mourinho.
“His psychological energy, tactical skill, the way in which he recovers the ball, the way in which he pressures, the way in which he performs up entrance, I’m very comfortable.”