Former Real Madrid star Luis Figo shared his thoughts on several major topics surrounding the club during a Betfair event, including Kylian Mbappé’s injury situation, Madrid’s chances in Europe, and the challenge facing manager Álvaro Arbeloa this season.
Figo emphasized that decisions around Mbappé’s potential return from injury must be handled carefully, stressing that the final call should depend on how the player feels physically and the level of risk involved.
“Mbappé’s injury is a matter of really
seeing what the player feels,” Figo said. “Whether it’s possible to risk it or not, and whether that risk could have worse consequences. Everything must be agreed upon with the medical team and the coach, because every situation is different.”
Drawing from his own experience as a player, Figo admitted that the desire to help the team often leads footballers to take risks with their health—sometimes with negative consequences.
“In my case, sometimes I pushed myself too hard and it didn’t go so well,” he explained. “But I did it because I wanted to be on the field and help the team and my teammates. Sometimes you make those sacrifices without knowing what might happen. And then it takes its toll.”
Figo also discussed the broader Champions League landscape, identifying Real Madrid and Manchester City as the main contenders for the trophy this season.
“For me, both Real Madrid and Manchester City are favorites to win the tournament,” he said.
Despite any domestic struggles Real Madrid may face, Figo pointed out that the club has a unique relationship with the Champions League—one that often allows them to perform differently on the European stage.
“It’s a different competition,” he said. “It wouldn’t be the first time a team that isn’t at its best in the league has redeemed itself in Europe. And that especially happens to Real Madrid. They have a long history in this tournament and they play it differently.”
Finally, Figo commented on the situation facing Arbeloa, acknowledging that taking over mid-season presents significant challenges compared to beginning a campaign with a full preseason.
“The moment Arbeloa arrived wasn’t easy,” Figo said. “It’s not the same to start a season from scratch as it is to arrive mid-season with no time to change many things. But Real Madrid is always Real Madrid. The team is fighting in the Champions League and is still in contention.”
