Luis Figo’s high-profile move from Barcelona to Real Madrid in 2000 caused a major stir and ignited intense controversy among football fans. Figo, renowned as one of the world’s finest players, shocked Barcelona supporters when he joined their arch-rivals, Real Madrid.
The staggering transfer fee of €62 million shattered records at the time, symbolising Real Madrid’s determination to spare no expense in their pursuit of success. This significant transfer intensified the already fierce rivalry between the two Spanish powerhouses, a rivalry that endures to this day.
Figo’s transfer drew considerable criticism and animosity, particularly from Barcelona fans. Whenever he faced his former club, he faced a chorus of boos and jeers, and he even encountered the shocking act of having a pig’s head thrown at him during a match.
However, Figo’s move to Real Madrid became a resounding success. There is no doubt that the move was the right one because of the success he experienced. There was no shortage of trophies and his trophy cabinet is filled with league titles, Champions League titles and many others, including the Fifa World Player of the Year in 2000. So, all that hatred he experienced was probably worth it in the end in the eyes of Figo.
The transfer of Figo represented a pivotal moment in Spanish football history, underscoring the influence of financial resources in the sport. It also deepened the already fierce rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, amplifying the passion and intensity of their clashes on and off the field.