"You have to have motivation": Luis Figo analyzes Real Madrid’s La Liga race

Aug 18, 2025 1 min read
"You have to have motivation": Luis Figo analyzes Real Madrid’s La Liga race
According to Figo, the goal for Madrid remains clear: reclaim La Liga and challenge for every major competition.

Luis Figo, Betfair's new ambassador in Spain, shared his thoughts on Real Madrid’s transfer strategy for the 2025/26 season. The Portuguese legend highlighted the importance of the club reinforcing its squad after last year’s struggles, particularly following Luka Modric’s departure.

"I think the club, as always in these cases, after a year like last year, always tries to strengthen itself to become more solid and to improve the squad in the positions it believes it needs," Figo told Betfair.

Overcoming Barcelona and Winning Titles

According to Figo, the goal for Madrid remains clear: reclaim La Liga and challenge for every major competition. He dismissed suggestions that the team lacked desire last season.

"I don't think the players lacked hunger. When you play for Madrid, you have to be aware that you're competing to try to win everything, and that you have to have that motivation, passion, and work to win titles and be better than the rest," he stressed.

La Liga Race: Madrid vs Barcelona

The former Ballon d’Or winner believes the Spanish league title race will once again be decided between its two traditional giants.

"The fight for La Liga will be between Madrid and Barcelona, the theoretically strongest teams, with the best players and squad, and historically the most victories. For all these reasons, they are the favorites," he explained.

Vinícius or Mbappé? Figo Chooses Both

When asked about Madrid’s new leaders, Figo refused to single out one player, instead stressing the importance of consistency across a long campaign.

"Vinicius or Mbappé? Both. In such a long season, you have to be consistent. A single player can't always be at the same level for eleven months," he said.

New Faces in La Liga and MVP Predictions

Figo also expressed admiration for some of the league’s new arrivals.

"I like Alexander-Arnold and Rashford," he admitted, while tipping potential MVPs such as Raphinha, Vinicius, Mbappé, and Atlético’s Julián Álvarez to shine in the upcoming season.

Great! Next, complete checkout for full access to Pure Football.
Welcome back! You've successfully signed in.
You've successfully subscribed to Pure Football.
Success! Your account is fully activated, you now have access to all content.
Success! Your billing info has been updated.
Your billing was not updated.