Nacho: James has not said goodbye to Real Madrid
The Colombian came off just past the hour-mark and applauded the Bernabéu fans but Nacho does not believe it was meant as a farewell.
Real Madrid defender Nacho does not believe team-mate James Rodríguez was waving goodbye to his career at the club after applauding the entire Santiago Bernabéu on Sunday.
James has been heavily linked with a transfer to Manchester United and talk of a move away from the Spanish capital intensified following the 4-1 rout of Sevilla.
The Colombia international came off just past the hour-mark and applauded the Madrid fans but Nacho does not think it was a farewell.
Nacho: "I don't think it's a goodbye"
"The ovation for James was very nice," Nacho said afterwards, having scored and assisted another as Madrid stayed level on points with leaders Barcelona.
"The whole stadium has applauded him, he's a great player and I don't think it's a goodbye."
James, 25, is desperate for regular football, having struggled to cement a spot in Zinedine Zidane's starting XI.
Madrid goalkeeper Keylor Navas – who faces an uncertain future himself – added: "James has his contract and as always, he is working in a professional manner. We love him as a person and admire him as a player. He is motivated and always ready to play."
Photo album | James Rodríguez' five trophies with Real Madrid.