Figo: "Lopetegui paid for the team's poor run of results"
The former Real Madrid winger offered his opinion on the sacking of Loptegui to 'Deportes Cuatro'
Luis Figo spoke with 'Deportes Cuatro' in Spain about the situation at his former club Real Madrid as well the general state of football and how it's difficult to maintain a high level of performances this season.
"It's a difficult year because we've had a World Cup. The players have arrived back at preseason at different times and there have been some changes. They haven't signed many players and it's been a difficult start to the season, but Real Madrid are always there and I'm sure they'll face up to their critics."
Figo was also questioned about the failure to bring somebody in to replace Cristiano Ronaldo, a man who has regularly scored between 40 and 50 goals a season. "There isn't another player like Cristiano. There isn't much available on the market today either. Players who are theoretically the best in the world are already under contract at other clubs and it's difficult to sign them. And it's another thing trying to replace Cristiano, which isn't easy, as he's the best player in the world."
On the early sacking of Julen Lopetegui, Figo came out in defence of his friend. "Madrid aren't used to these poor runs of form. We know that when they happen the first one who is blamed is the coach and I'm sure they wanted to change the dynamic of the team. In the end, and Lopetegui is my friend, I believe he made the decision to take what was a difficult job and ultimately paid for the poor run of results."
his relationship with solari and florentino
Figo has a good relationship with the current man in charge too, Santiago Solari. "Will he keep the job? I don't know. Coaches' lifespans depend on results and then it's important to know how the board of directors feel as well," Figo added. "Football is very difficult. There are a lot of great coaches who don't get good results and then there are others, who perhaps aren't as good, who get better results. How can you explain that?"
"I have a relationship with him (Florentino Perez), of course. As a representative of UEFA it's perfectly normal for me to have a rapport with all the clubs' chairmen. And logically, he was the chairman when I played for Madrid, so we have a good relationship."
