Figo backs Mbappe and Ancelotti amid Real Madrid scrutiny – ‘We’ve all been whistled at Bernabeu’ | OneFootball

As pressure mounts at Real Madrid following a difficult spell, former player Luis Figo has stepped in to defend both Kylian Mbappe and Carlo Ancelotti, encouraging calm amid rising tension at the Santiago Bernabeu.

The Portuguese icon, who once played for both Barcelona and Madrid, was quick to downplay the recent whistles aimed at Mbappe, noting it as part and parcel of playing at a club of such stature.

Mbappe, who arrived last year with the weight of expectation on his shoulders, was booed during the recent clash against Athletic Club.

He even chose to watch the match from a box seat rather than join the dugout, sparking criticism and media frenzy. But Figo, having lived through the pressures of the Galactico era, was unfazed by the episode.

“Mbappe doesn’t have to feel special. We have all been whistled at the Bernabeu,” he said with a shrug, adding that first seasons at Real Madrid are “never easy.”

Support for Ancelotti

Luis Figo has spoken in support of Mbappe and Ancelotti. (Photo by Simon Hofmann/Getty Images for Laureus)

The former Ballon d’Or winner also came out strongly in support of Carlo Ancelotti, who is facing uncertain future at the club.

“I’m very surprised that his value as a coach is questioned,” Figo said firmly.

“A person who has won everything and proves his worth year after year… In football, you can’t always win.”

His words echo the sentiments of others in the football world, including Cafu and Fabio Capello, who have also defended the Italian coach’s credentials.

As two decisive derbies against Barcelona loom, one in the Copa del Rey final and another in La Liga, Figo refused to predict the outcome, choosing instead to keep things light. “Who is going to beat whom? We’ll see,” he said with a touch of irony.

For a man who knows both sides of the divide, Figo’s diplomatic yet supportive stance carries weight.

And for Mbappe, who is learning to understand the intense spotlight of Madrid, Figo’s words serve as a reminder that even legends face whistles, but greatness lies in how one responds.

Source: SPORT