The day that shook history; ⚠ The “godfather” entered with the most controversial event

In such a day in the summer of 2000, the transfer of Luís Figo from Barcelona to Real Madrid marked the most controversial transfer in football history.

Florentino Pérez, a candidate for the presidency of Real Madrid, during the election promised that if he became president, he would bring the beloved Barcelona captain into his service—something many considered impossible.

Pérez signed a confidential contract with Figo’s agent, under which, if he won the election and did not sign Figo, he would have to pay hefty compensation. This clause meant that after winning the election, there would be no way back.

After Pérez’s victory, Real Madrid paid Barcelona the buyout clause for Figo’s contract—about 10.27 billion pesetas (equivalent to 60 million euros). A record that at the time was considered the most expensive transfer in football history.

The transfer dealt a major shock to Barcelona fans, because Figo was the team captain and one of the club’s most beloved players.

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