Figo names San Mames as his favourite stadium in Spain

Luis Figo has revealed that San Mames is the Spanish stadium that left the biggest impression on him, choosing Athletic Bilbao’s home over the grounds of both Barcelona and Real Madrid.

The former Portugal, Real Madrid and Barcelona winger made the admission during a quick-fire interview covering his career memories, personal preferences and the players he admires today.

Figo, regarded as one of the finest right-sided players in football history, was at the centre of one of Spanish football’s most controversial transfers when he left Barcelona for Real Madrid. He made the move after feeling he had not been sufficiently valued by Barcelona, either in sporting or financial terms.

The transfer was Florentino Perez’s first major signing after becoming Real Madrid president and placed Figo at the centre of intense criticism from supporters and media for an extended period.

Figo took part in an event hosted by La Liga in New York City a few days ago to mark the global premiere of EA SPORTS’ game. He appeared alongside several other league legends, including Marcelo, Rivaldo and Javier Mascherano.

After the event, former Barcelona and Real Madrid player Sofia Ramirez conducted the short interview with Figo before sharing it on her social media accounts.

San Mames stands out

Asked which supporters or stadiums had created the strongest atmosphere during his career, Figo initially hesitated before naming Liverpool.

“It is always complicated, but perhaps Liverpool,” he said.

Ramirez then asked him to identify the best stadium in Spain, particularly in terms of atmosphere. Figo ruled out the stadiums of his former clubs and replied: “Perhaps San Mames.”

His answer referred to Athletic Bilbao’s stadium, which is renowned for its passionate support.

Figo was also asked where he would most like to live. His response was brief: “Lisbon.” Ramirez agreed, describing the Portuguese capital as “a very beautiful place”.

Pauleta his standout team-mate

When asked to choose the best team-mate of his career, Figo said he had played alongside many outstanding players but selected fellow Portugal international Pedro Pauleta.

“Thank God, I had very good team-mates because they were all excellent, but if I had to choose one, I would say Pauleta,” Figo said.

The toughest opponents he faced were two defenders: Brazil’s Roberto Carlos and Italy’s Paolo Maldini. Figo selected the pair because of their strength, pace, experience and ability to reduce the threat posed by opposing forwards.

He also identified his favourite goal, although he said the decision was made easier by the relatively small number he scored.

“It is easy because I did not score many goals, so I choose the goal I scored for Portugal against England in the European Championship,” he said.

Figo concluded the interview by naming his current favourite players: England midfielder Jude Bellingham, France forward Kylian Mbappe, France international Michael Olise and Brazil forward Vinicius Junior.