SerpApi.Org
Real Madrid legend Luís Figo shared his thoughts on several of football’s biggest talking points while speaking at a Betfair event, discussing Rodri’s links to the Spanish giants, the Ballon d’Or race following the FIFA World Cup, and what José Mourinho’s side must accomplish this season.
Figo was first asked about the persistent speculation linking Manchester City midfielder Rodri with a move to Real Madrid. While acknowledging the reports, the former Ballon d’Or winner admitted that completing such a transfer would be far from straightforward.
“I know there’s been talk of Rodri coming to Real Madrid. I think it will be difficult because he’s under contract with Manchester City, but everyone knows that Real Madrid always wants to sign the best players in the world.”
Figo also praised Rodri’s performances during the World Cup, highlighting the midfielder’s overall influence rather than focusing solely on traditional attacking statistics.
“For me, Rodri has had a great World Cup, even though he hasn’t stood out much in terms of goals or assists.”
The Portuguese icon also offered his view on this year’s Ballon d’Or race. He believes Kylian Mbappé’s outstanding World Cup campaign has strengthened his candidacy but stressed that performances across the entire season—including domestic competitions and the Champions League—should carry significant weight.
“Mbappé and his great World Cup performance will surely put him among the potential winners. And I would certainly include a PSG player who has won the Champions League again. The whole year should count. Logically, the World Cup can tip the scales when choosing the winner, but domestic titles and the Champions League are also very important.”
Among the other names Figo believes deserve consideration are Paris Saint-Germain duo Vitinha and Désiré Doué, both of whom impressed throughout the club season despite Portugal’s disappointing World Cup campaign.
“I would perhaps highlight Vitinha and Doué, who have had a great season despite the World Cup not going so well for them, especially for Portugal. I would include all of them among the candidates.”
Looking back on the recently concluded World Cup, Figo had no doubts about the deserved champions, praising Spain for their consistency throughout the tournament.
“Spain was the best team, not just in the final, but throughout the entire competition. They only conceded one goal. Overall, I think they were the most consistent team and also the ones who played the best football, so Spain’s World Cup victory was, without a doubt, the victory of the best team.”
Finally, Figo turned his attention to his former club and the expectations surrounding Real Madrid heading into the new campaign under José Mourinho. After two seasons without silverware, he believes the club’s objective is clear.
“I think the most important thing for Real Madrid now will be to win again after two years without titles.”
