The Clasico Edge: Figo Says Real Madrid Has the Home Advantage, Zidane Surprises as a Coach
24 October 2025
Insights from Luis Figo on the Clasico
Portuguese icon Luis Figo, who played for both Barcelona and Real Madrid, believes Real Madrid has the edge ahead of the Clasico at home, energized by last season’s events and playing on their own turf.
In remarks published by Sport and echoed by Betfair, where Figo serves as an ambassador, he predicted a 3-1 Madrid victory, calling them the favorites to win at home and hoping the result delivers a thrilling, goal-filled game.
Figo explained that his forecast rests on the heightened drive of the Real Madrid squad under coach Xabi Alonso, especially after Barcelona’s dominance last season when the Catalans claimed four direct encounters.
He added that Real Madrid will be most motivated if they avoid dwelling on last season’s memories; after all, every new campaign starts from zero, with fresh objectives and new signings, and Clasico’s tendency to defy expectations remains a constant.
Figo also spoke about former teammates who could fit into the rival camp, recalling discussions about how players from Barcelona and Real Madrid often adapt well to the other side, given their high-caliber careers.
“Zidane surprised me as a coach,” Figo remarked, reflecting on the transition from star player to manager and noting how different leadership styles can reshape a club’s approach.
He reminisced about his two Madrid-Catalan chapters, mentioning he still cherishes both of his club kits as keepsakes, a reminder of the unique bond players have with these two giants.
Rounding out the reflection, Figo emphasized that while Real Madrid might feel slight favoritism, each season begins anew and the Clasico’s outcome is never guaranteed.
Beyond the players’ memories, Figo commented on the rivalry’s context, including recent head-to-heads: Barcelona’s 4-0 win at Real Madrid in the first leg of last season’s league, Barcelona’s 5-2 Super Cup triumph in Saudi Arabia, and Barca’s late 3-2 Copa del Rey win after extra time, all intensifying the upcoming clash.
The current landscape for Real Madrid and Barcelona in La Liga
Real Madrid, under Alonso, sit top of La Liga with 24 points from eight wins and a single defeat to Atlético Madrid. They have scored 20 goals and conceded nine, maintaining a slim lead over their eternal rivals.
Barcelona, guided by Hans Flick, sit close behind with 22 points from seven wins, a draw, and one loss, with 24 goals scored and 10 conceded so far.
Mercato updates
Real Madrid have bolstered their squad with four summer signings for the 2025-2026 season: Dín Huisen from Bournemouth, Trent Alexander-Arnold from Liverpool, Álvaro Carerras from Benfica, and Franco Mastantono from River Plate. Sports Mole reports a combined spend of about £139.8 million for these additions.
Barcelona, under German coach Hans Flick, completed three summer deals: Spanish goalkeeper Juan García from Espanyol, Swedish winger Roni Bardji from Copenhagen, and the loan of Marcus Rashford from Manchester United.
These moves set the stage for a refreshed Clasico, with both teams aiming to translate their transfer business into tangible success on the pitch.
Real Madrid and Barcelona meet this Sunday in the tenth round of La Liga at the Santiago Bernabéu, as the rivals chase momentum and bragging rights in one of football’s most storied duels.
What this means for Real Madrid and Barcelona
The clash has extra spice given last season’s results and the new signings, which could tilt tactical balance and mood in Madrid’s favor at home. The Clasico remains a proving ground where a single tactical tweak or a moment of individual brilliance can redefine a season’s trajectory.
As the season unfolds, both clubs will be looking to convert early-season form into sustained performance, with the added pressure of meeting fan expectations and media scrutiny that accompanies the Clasico narrative.
One thing is certain: whether it’s Zidane’s coaching evolution, the new faces, or a classic Madrid-Barça chess match, this derby will keep fans glued and could shape the title race as it heats up across Spain.
