Luís Figo contributes to panel on training

Luís Figo also took to the stage at The Future of Football International Congress this week, as part of a panel on what makes the difference in training. Also joining the Portuguese legend, in a panel moderated by Luciano Cefaratti, were Jorge Jesus, Francisco Maturana and Susana Torres.

Speaking in front of a capacity auditorium, Figo did not hide is pride on returning to Alvalade: "After so many years it is always nice to come back. In relation to coaching, I think there are two kinds of coach: youth coaches and senior coaches. Coaches are extremely important for youth teams and they are directly responsible for the future of the young players they work with. Senior team coaches have to know everything about the sport, know how to plan and how to deal with certain behaviours to they can get the best out of the players."

Maturana also took took to the stage to share his experience as both a player and a coach, while Susana Torres spoke about the mental side of the game.

Former Sporting and Real Madrid star reflects on his time with two of Europe's giants

The 2001 World Player of the Year, Luís Figo, was one of the much sought after pundits ahead of this Wednesday's Champions League encounter between Sporting and Real Madrid, having represented both clubs.

Figo opened with a reflection on the Alvalade youth system: "Great players are made there. When I was there the idol was Futre. Next it was me, Simão, Cristiano and Nani. I was there from the age of 12 to 22 and I learnt everything at Sporting."

Figo also spoke about his time with Sporting as a professional: "It was a brilliant team! Balakov, Juskowiak. Then after that Paulo Sousa, Pacheco, Luisinho, Venâncio… I also played with Carlos Manuel, Douglas and even Rijkaard. I have a photograph with him as well. I had coaches like Bobby Robson, Queiroz."