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The Portuguese star, who won the award in 2000, reveals his opinion
Portugal star Luis Figo, who won the Ballon d’Or in 2000, has edged out Lionel Messi and Lamin Yamal from the list of leading contenders to win this year’s Ballon d’Or despite reaching the 2026 World Cup final with four other names nominated for the award.
Figo said that Rodri’s performances at the World Cup put him among the front-runners, stressing that the Spanish midfielder had boosted his chances after his impressive performances at the tournament.
He added that in the statements published by the newspaper.Brand:“Rodri had a great World Cup and this could tip the balance in his favor in the Ballon d’Or race,” the Spanish newspaper wrote on Wednesday.
Figo noted that the rumors about Real Madrid’s interest in Rodri’s inclusion are normal, explaining: “I think it will be difficult to complete the deal because he has a contract with Manchester City, but everyone knows that Real Madrid are always looking to get the best players in the world.
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The Portuguese star believed France’s Kylian Mbappe also deserved to be among the top contenders after his excellent tournament, even though Rodry did not put up any remarkable goals or assist numbers.
“Although Rodri didn’t really shine in terms of goals or assists, he had an exceptional tournament. “Mbappe, because of what he did at the World Cup, should be among the candidates.”
Figo also included Paris Saint-Germain pair Vitinha of Portugal and Desiree Douy of France in his list, noting that what they have produced this season, especially after winning the Champions League, makes them one of the most popular contenders for the award.
He added: “I think Vitinha and Dui had a great season, even if the World Cup wasn’t their best, especially with Portugal, but they deserve to be on the shortlist.”
A worthy title
In another context, Figo highly appreciated the level shown by the Spanish national team in the World Cup, considering that it fully deserved to become the champion.
He explained. “Spain were the best team not only in the final but throughout the tournament, they conceded only one goal, were the most consistent and played the best football, so their crown was deserved.”
Figo also referred to the return of the Portuguese Jose Mourinho as the head coach of Real Madrid, stressing that the most important task before him is to return the team to the grandstand.
He concluded his statements by saying: “I think that now the most important goal of Real Madrid is to return after two seasons without championship titles.
