Figo Slams Mbappé's Impact on Real Madrid's Locker Room Culture

Portuguese football icon Luis Figo didn't mince words in his recent assessment of Real Madrid's turbulent season. Speaking with MARCA, the Ballon d'Or winner and current Laureus Academy member delivered a scathing critique that few retired players would dare to voice publicly.

"Mbappé's arrival has filled the Real Madrid dressing room with selfishness," Figo stated plainly. It's a devastating assessment of a player Los Blancos chased for years, investing significant resources and diplomatic effort to secure his signature. Regardless of the French superstar's individual statistics, if he's created divisions within the squad, that represents a fundamental issue — one that's clearly reflected in the team's performances.

Alonso Never Had Adequate Time to Implement His Vision

Addressing the mid-season managerial switch — from Xabi Alonso to Álvaro Arbeloa — Figo was equally direct: "I don't think he has had time. We haven't even had time to make an analysis of the months he has been here. It's very complicated."

This wasn't an endorsement of Alonso's tactical approach, but rather an acknowledgment that you simply cannot properly assess a coaching stint that was terminated before it could take meaningful form. The decision-makers at the Bernabéu pulled the trigger without much patience — or substantial evidence to justify the move.

"The reality is that it is a bad season," Figo continued. "For Madrid, if you don't win, it's always a negative season. When titles are missing, it's because things weren't working." There's little room for debate there. An institution constructed on silverware doesn't have the luxury of repackaging disappointment as a developmental phase.

PSG and Bayern Tipped for European Glory

Looking ahead to the Champions League semi-finals, Figo identified his favourites without hesitation: Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. "They are two very strong teams. I like their way of playing football, but anything can happen."

From a wagering standpoint, both clubs have demonstrated the knockout stage consistency that warrants favourable odds. PSG especially has appeared transformed in this European run — more organized tactically, less reliant on moments of individual magic. Meanwhile, Bayern's relentless machine continues to grind forward.

Figo also shared his thoughts on the 2026 World Cup landscape, positioning Portugal in an intriguing category — not among the traditional powerhouses, but genuinely threatening based on current talent. He identified France, Spain, Brazil, and England as the primary contenders, notably placing Argentina below its typical elite standing in his evaluation.

Regarding Barcelona's teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, he kept his praise concise: "It's incredible. He's an incredible talent." At just 17 years old, Yamal is already forcing opposing defenders to completely rethink their approach to Barcelona's attacking left flank. The baseline for his career trajectory already exceeds what most professionals achieve at their peak.