Luis Figo advises James to look for happiness
The ex-Real Madrid star spoke after the Legends game at the Bernabéu and gave his view on the futures of James and Morata as well as Cristiano and the Ballon d'Or.
Luis Figo was back playing for Real Madrid at the Bernabéu on Sunday, in what was a trip down recent memory lane to the cast of Galácticos. Following the game - one in which the Portuguese legend scored in the 3-0 victory over Roma - he spoke to the press about several of the topics currently making headlines.
Solution required for James and Madrid
There has been speculation surrounding the future of Madrid's current number 10, James Rodriguez, for some time, with reports more and more clear that the Colombian captain will be leaving Madrid this summer. Figo had clear and simple advice for the 25-year old:
"Search for happiness, it's a personal decision. He and Madrid must find a solution."
Morata to United
Another Blancos players heavily linked with a move away - despite returning just last summer after a spell at Juventus - is Álvaro Morato. Manchester United is a likely destination but again Figo's advice was for the player to think about himself:
"It's a personal decision. One always wants to play more; he is young, we will have to see what happens."
Cristiano and the Ballon d'Or
As seems to be customary these days, a question regarding the Ballon d'Or was put to the man who swapped Barça colours for the white of Madrid. Knowing exactly what it takes to win the individual prize, Figo was handed the award in the year 2000, he put Cristiano Ronaldo as favourite for this year:
"He's always favourite, and even more so after winning everything."
Maybe following the success of Galactico teammate, Zidane, Figo was asked if there was any likelyhood in us seeing him in a dugout soon, but this was certainly far from his plans.
Other legends spoke on the James situation
Michel: "It's impossible to have 26 happy players. It's clear that you need 26 top players, but this implies that many of them will not play the minutes that they need. James is world class and must say what he wants."
Sávio: "It's difficult because these are immensely talented players. It's a shame that James is not playing, as he is a player I like a lot, it'll be sad to see him leave."
José Emilio Amavisca: "To be at Madrid for many years is complicated. If you have the trust, I would never leave Real Madrid, but they also want to be happy."
With the signing of Ceballos, James wants to tie-up his departure from Real Madrid in the next 48 hours.