Luis Figo backs Real Madrid move for Rodri and names his Ballon d’Or favourites: ‘Always want to sign the best’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid star Luis Figo believes it would come as no surprise if the club attempted to sign Rodri, with the Manchester City midfielder continuing to be linked with a return to Spain after his outstanding FIFA World Cup campaign.

Rodri’s performances for Spain, which saw him crowned the tournament’s best player, have only intensified speculation surrounding his future. 

While Real Madrid are known admirers of the midfielder, completing a deal remains a complicated task given his contract situation at Manchester City.

Figo has now shared his thoughts on the transfer rumours, while also revealing the four players he believes deserve to be in contention for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

Figo expects Real Madrid to target the best

Speaking to Betfair (h/t AS), Figo admitted he would not be surprised if Real Madrid pursued Rodri, although he acknowledged that convincing Manchester City to part with one of their most influential players would be far from straightforward.

“I know there has been talk of the possibility of Rodri coming to Real Madrid. 

“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.”

Luis Figo has backed Real Madrid move for Rodri. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)

The Portuguese icon’s comments come amid continued reports linking Rodri with Santiago Bernabeu. 

Despite the player’s reported desire to join Real Madrid, no agreement has been reached, with the transfer still dependent on several factors, including the club’s planning and Manchester City’s willingness to negotiate.

Figo’s Ballon d’Or contenders

Figo also offered his assessment of this year’s Ballon d’Or race, highlighting four players he believes have separated themselves from the rest.

“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 believes consistency across the entire campaign should carry significant weight in the voting process, rather than judging players solely on their performances at the World Cup.

“Mbappe and his outstanding World Cup performance will surely put him among the potential winners too. And I would certainly include a PSG player who has won the Champions League again. 

Luis Figo has named his Ballon d’Or contenders. (Photo by Borja B. Hojas/Getty Images for Laureus)

“The whole year should be taken into account. Naturally, the World Cup may tip the balance when it comes to choosing the winner, but domestic titles and the Champions League are also very important.”

He completed his shortlist by highlighting two Paris Saint-Germain midfielders.

“In that regard, I might single out Vitinha and [Desire] Doue, who’ve had a great season even though the World Cup didn’t go so well for them, especially for Portugal. I’d put all of them among the contenders.”

Mourinho’s return brings fresh expectations at Real Madrid

Beyond transfers and individual awards, Figo also discussed what he expects from Jose Mourinho following the manager’s return to the Santiago Bernabeu.

For the former winger, Real Madrid’s priority is simple after an unusually disappointing spell without silverware.

“I think the most important thing for Real Madrid now will be to start winning again after two years without a trophy,” he concluded.