Barcelona Faces Fan Backlash Over Luis Figo Return as UEFA Ambassador for PSG Match

Luis Figo, once a celebrated Barcelona star, returned to Barcelona's stadium for the first time since 2009 to attend a Champions League match against Paris Saint-Germain as a UEFA ambassador, sparking intense reactions from fans. Despite 25 years passing since his controversial transfer to Real Madrid in 2000, which Barcelona fans still view as a profound betrayal, Figo faced harsh whistles and offensive chants branding him a traitor. Barcelona president Joan Laporta defended Figo's presence, urging respect for his contributions to the club and emphasizing his role within UEFA, while former president Joan Gaspart expressed his refusal to acknowledge Figo. The animosity towards Figo remains deeply rooted, with past incidents including fans throwing a pig's head at him during a match and recent confrontations highlighting the ongoing hostility. This episode underscores the enduring passion and rivalry between Barcelona and Real Madrid, and how Figo's transfer continues to evoke strong emotions within the football community. The situation illustrates the complex legacy of a player who was once a hero and is now viewed with lasting resentment by his former supporters.