James, resolute on future: "I'm staying here at Real Madrid"
The Colombian was adamant about his future, telling reporters after the Sevilla game that he will be staying at Real Madrid and 2017 is "the start of a new era".
James Rodríguez started last night's Cup tie against Sevilla just a couple of weeks after saying he had seven days "to think" about whether he should move on from Real Madrid. Zidane handed him a new opportunity and the Colombian complied with two goals and a flawless performance. After the game, he attended the media in the Mixed Zone and was clear about his plans for the future: "I'm staying", he said.
Overview of the game: "We played well with a lot of intensity. It's a good result to take into the return leg - it's an excellent result against an excellent team".
Vindication: "All I want is to play well when I am given the opportunity, and to do good things like in tonight's game and help the team with goals or passes. I felt really good out there. The whole team played well and when that's the case, everything falls into place for each one of us. Now we have to prepare ourself for what will be a tough year”.
Tie not over
Is the tie cut and dried? "No, we have to be fully focused in the return leg and and go all out to sentence the tie".
The Bernabéu chanting your name: "That was beautiful, I have always dreamed about being at this club and when the fans chant your name, it's a unique feeling”.
More playing time: "Obviously, all of us want to always be in the team and always be playing; we all go through bad moments but this is the start of a new year and a new life".
Chances of leaving Real Madrid: "I'm staying, I'm staying here".
Update 12 May 2017: James has reached an initial agreement with Manchester United.