Editions
Los 40 USA
Scores
Follow us on
Hello

BARCELONA-REAL MADRID

Figo: Xavi and Guardiola "are responsible for their own words"

The Portuguese and Real Madrid legend experienced his fair share of hostility around El Clásico, but believes politics and football should be separated.

Figo: Xavi and Guardiola "are responsible for their own words"
Juan Naharro GimenezWireImage

Luis Figo, who controversially made the move from the Camp Nou to the Santiago Bernabéu in his playing days, has spoken about the current situation in Catalonia, and its relationship with the clash between Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Figo on football, Xavi and Pep

"Football should not get in the middle of political problems," stated the Portuguese legend. "Instead, football has to be a reason for things to work aligned to sporting values."

The Ballon d'Or winner of 2000 gave his view on what should happen with the upcoming Clásico.

"Everyone involved has to decide what is best. In the end I don't think either the date or the venue will be changed." Figo was also against the idea of playing what many believe to be the biggest derby in club football behind closed doors, which had been put forward as a possible solution to security concerns.

Students wave a Catalan pro-independence "estelada" flag as they protest during a demonstration in front of the police headquarters in Barcelona on October 17, 2019.
Full screen
Students wave a Catalan pro-independence "estelada" flag as they protest during a demonstration in front of the police headquarters in Barcelona on October 17, 2019.PAU BARRENAAFP

Along with a number of topics covered, Figo was asked what he thought about the opinions given by Xavi Hernández and Pep Guardiola on the Catalan situation.

"They are both free to voice their opinion, and to take responsibility for their words," he concluded.