Colombian attacker James Rodriguez looked set to move from Real Madrid to neighbours Atletico Madrid last summer, as part of the Rojiblancos’ summer rebuild. However, the move broke down at the eleventh hour. The player now has revealed the reasons behind it.
Former Real Madrid star, James Rodriguez, has revealed that it was the club that stopped him from joining rivals Atletico Madrid in the summer of 2019. The Colombian attacker was said to be closing in on a move across the city of Madrid, only for the transfer to break down at the last moment.
I played very little in Madrid. After leaving Bayern I had everything ready to join Atletico Madrid, but Real Madrid didn’t let me.
Rodriguez told ESPN.
Napoli too were interested in signing the 2014 FIFA World Cup revelation. The Serie A outfit was coached then by Carlo Ancelotti, who had previously managed Rodriguez at the Santiago Bernabeu. The two finally were reunited in 2020 at Everton with the player claiming that the coach played a key role in his decision.
If it weren’t for Carlo, I wouldn’t have come [to Everton]. It’s the truth. Then, I started to get to know the club, the people, and I saw that everyone wanted to win, like me. But Carlo being here was fundamental.
It hasn’t been easy for me due to physical problems, but I know that when I play well, the team play well. I’ve shown my strength at the club, and with my teammates. I want Everton to play good football.
he said.
Rodriguez was one of the new arrivals at Goodison Park this summer, along with Allan and Abdoulaye Doucoure. While the Toffees paid big sums to sign the latter two, Rodriguez reportedly joined on a free transfer. The ex-Real Madrid man has made 18 league appearances for the Merseysiders so far and has five goals and four assists to his name.
Thanks to his contribution, Everton are eighth in the league table, level on points with rivals Liverpool. However, they do have a game in hand over their neighbours.
