Luis Figo recently appeared on Iker Casillas’ podcast Bajo los Palos, where the Real Madrid legend discussed his infamous departure from Barcelona, shared his thoughts on Vinicius Jr. missing out on the Ballon d’Or, and compared Real Madrid’s current squad to the infamous Galacticos era.
The former winger started off by stating that although he is not liked by the Barcelona fans, he cherishes his life at the club, “I felt identified with the club to the fullest and the time I spent there were fantastic years, I always said it. I’m never going to deny my past.”
Interestingly, his move to Real Madrid wasn’t a cakewalk either. “It wasn’t easy, I had to stay in a hotel for three months.
“I arrived at a difficult time, in a moment of transition, the direction changed. I didn’t even have anyone to take me to train.”
Speaking on returning to Camp Nou in a Real Madrid shirt
Figo’s transfer from Barcelona to Real Madrid in 2000 remains one of the most controversial moves in football history.
Luis Figo reflected on facing Barcelona. (Photo by Firo Foto/Getty Images)
When asked about dealing with the intense hostility at Camp Nou upon his return, Figo admitted he was well aware of the reaction awaiting him.
“Pressure has always helped me stay awake. I knew perfectly well how I would be received.
“It’s much easier when you expect a hostile reception than when you’re playing at home and your own fans whistle at you. When you go there, you know they are going to kill you or call you everything.”
Despite the insults, banners, and even objects thrown at him—including the infamous pig’s head—Figo remained composed, showing why he thrived under pressure.
On Vinicius missing out on Ballon d’Or
Figo acknowledged that missing out on the Ballon d’Or is always a disappointment, but he believed both Rodri and Vinicius were deserving candidates.
“Whoever wins it has earned it. Rodri won the European Championship and deserved it, but Vinicius also had an incredible year, winning the Champions League.
“If I had voted last year, I would have chosen Rodri, but this year, perhaps, Vinicius deserves it.”
Is this Madrid side the Galacticos 2.0?
Figo refused to compare the Galacticos era. (Photo by Angel Martinez/Getty Images)
Figo hesitated to compare eras, arguing that football evolves and that each period should be appreciated for what it was.
“Comparisons are always unfair because someone gets harmed. Every era should be lived and remembered.
“You can’t compare players, styles of play, or philosophies. In the end, what matters is whether you win or not and who was part of that team.”
While the Galacticos era had stars like Zidane, Ronaldo, and David Beckham, the current Real Madrid squad boasts the likes of Vinicius, Jude Bellingham, and Kylian Mbappe.
Regardless of labels, one thing remains constant—Madrid’s hunger for success.