Luis Figo Analyzes Real Madrid Struggles and Backs Lamine Yamal as Future Football Icon

Luis Figo analyzes Real Madrid’s "negative" season in Marca, names UCL favorites, and praises Barcelona star Lamine Yamal as an amazing talent.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 3:43 AM EDT

Source: Information for this report was sourced from YSScores

Evaluating a Disappointing Campaign at the Bernabéu

Reflecting on the current state of his former club, Luis Figo did not mince words regarding Real Madrid’s recent performances. The 2000 Ballon d'Or winner noted that the 2025-26 season has been an objectively negative period for the "Merengues," emphasizing that at a club of Madrid's stature, the absence of major trophies is the ultimate indicator of failure. According to Figo, the team lacked the consistency required to challenge on multiple fronts, leading to an environment where the lack of titles naturally invited intense public and internal scrutiny.

The Transitional Phase of Xabi Alonso and Álvaro Arbeloa

A central theme of the interview was the recent coaching upheaval that saw Xabi Alonso depart in January 2026, replaced by the academy’s own Álvaro Arbeloa. Figo defended Alonso’s short-lived tenure, suggesting that the Spanish tactician was never granted sufficient time to implement his vision or navigate the complex dressing room dynamics reported by the media. Figo characterized the months under Alonso as "very complicated" and argued that conducting a fair technical analysis is impossible given the brief window and the high-pressure circumstances of his appointment and eventual exit.

Paris and Munich Named as Champions League Favorites

Turning his attention to the European stage, Figo shared his predictions for the ongoing UEFA Champions League. As the tournament reaches its semifinal stage, the former midfielder selected Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich as the primary contenders for the trophy. Figo explained that both squads have demonstrated a superior brand of football and possess the tactical depth necessary to navigate the high-stakes knockout rounds. While acknowledging that "anything is possible" in a competition known for late drama, he tipped the French and German giants as the most balanced teams remaining.