Real Madrid midfielder, James Rodriguez has claimed that he did not consider leaving the Los Blancos during this transfer window after not finding a regular spot in the playing XI since new manager, Zinedine Zidane took over in January this year. The Colombian was tipped to leave the Spanish capital and also attracted interest from Italy.
James Rodriguez started his first game this season in the absence of Cristiano Ronaldo and Gareth Bale against Espanyol and scored a stunning outside-the-box goal to give Real Madrid the lead. After the game the Colombian expressed that he never wanted to leave the Santiago Bernabeu and he will fight for his place.
The World Cup 2014 top scorer, Rodriguez said:
“I never thought about leaving Real Madrid and have always strived to be here,” Rodriguez told the Spanish media after the 2-0 win. I have felt great support from the team and the coach. I have a good relationship with the coach and it shows.”
The 25-year-old has failed to find a permanent place for him since he joined the Los Merengues back in 2014 from AS Monaco. However, the Colombian has been directly involved in 43 La Liga goals since his arrival, more than any other Real Madrid midfielder.
The 11-time UCL winners’ manager, Zinedine Zidane, also remained clear to want the 25-year-old playmaker at the Los Blancos, regardless of his struggle of finding a place in the playing XI. Zidane also reassured his wish of seeing the Colombian succeed at the club.
James Rodriguez also revealed that Inter Milan was also attracted but he turned down a move to Italy.
“Playing here is a dream, I never wanted to leave. I would like to play more continuously, but there are so many champs here. I am in great terms with Zidane. It’s true, Inter wanted me, but I decided to stay.”
The Colombian star was used as a substitute in his first four matches this season while starting in the game against Espanyol due to the absence of Cristiano and Bale.
What will be interesting to see is if the 25-year-old will be able to break into the team when Madrid stars, Bale and Ronaldo come back from injury.
