Former Real Madrid star Luis Figo thinks it would be no shock at all if his old club tried to sign Rodri, especially after the Manchester City midfielder absolutely crushed it at the FIFA World Cup. Rodri was crowned the tournament’s best player for Spain, which only cranked up the rumors about where he’s headed next.
The Santiago Bernabéu Wants Rodri, But Will Man City Even Answer the Phone?
Real Madrid is definitely a fan of Rodri, everyone knows that. But getting him to the Santiago Bernabéu? That’s gonna be a tough one. Figo laid it out straight when talking to Betfair (h/t AS), saying he wouldn’t be surprised if Real Madrid went after him. The kicker? Figo also admitted convincing Manchester City to let go of one of their most important players would be “far from straightforward.” Think about it, the guy is still under contract. Figo put it simply: “I think it will be difficult, because he’s under contract with Manchester City, but everyone knows that Real Madrid always want to sign the best players in the world.” Rodri himself reportedly wants to make the move, but there’s no deal done. This whole thing still hinges on Real Madrid’s planning and whether Manchester City is even willing to talk.
Figo’s Shocking Ballon d’Or Picks: It’s Not Just About World Cup Goals!
Beyond the transfer drama, Figo also gave his take on who deserves the Ballon d’Or this year, and his list is a total head-scratcher for some. He highlighted four players who he thinks are above the rest. First up, Rodri. Figo said, “For me, Rodri has had a great World Cup even though, in terms of goals or assists, he hasn’t stood out that much.” Figo is saying consistency across the whole season should weigh more than just World Cup stats. Then there’s Kylian Mbappe, whose “outstanding World Cup performance will surely put him among the potential winners too.” Figo also threw in “a PSG player who has won the Champions League again.” He rounded out his list by naming two Paris Saint-Germain midfielders: Vitinha and Desire Doue, both of whom “had a great season even though the World Cup didn’t go so well for them, especially for Portugal.” For Figo, it’s about the whole year, domestic titles, and the Champions League, even if the World Cup tips the scales sometimes.
Mourinho’s Return: It’s Win or Bust for Real Madrid
And hey, let’s not forget Jose Mourinho is back at Real Madrid! Figo has some clear expectations for the manager’s return. After two years without a trophy, Real Madrid’s main goal is super simple. Figo summed it up: “I think the most important thing for Real Madrid now will be to start winning again after two years without a trophy.” So, it’s all about getting back to collecting silverware. No more drought. The pressure is ON!
What happens next with Rodri? Will Manchester City even budge? And who really takes home that Ballon d’Or? This season is just getting started, and there are so many storylines unfolding already.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by Yahoo Sports.
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