James Rodríguez: “Cristiano deserves to win the Ballon d'Or”
Bayern finished second in Group B and will therefore not face Real Madrid in the next round. The Colombian discussed the Ballon d'Or and the prospect of returning to the Bernabéu.
Following Bayern Munich's 3-1 win over PSG - an impressive result but insufficient to top Group B - in the Champions League, their Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez spoke about the draw, Thursday's Ballon d'Or, and his own form.
You can no longer come up against Real Madrid in the next round given that Zidane's side also finished second. Are you pleased about that or did you want to face your former team-mates?
I don't think there are any easy rivals left in the Champions League. It's tough whoever you play, particularly in the last 16 because you have to be on the top of your game. Having said that, going back to the Bernabéu would be special.
What do you think about Cristiano winning the Ballon d'Or?
It's deserved. Cristiano has had a great year and I'm happy for him. It'll be his fifth Ballon d'Or, and right now that says it all. He has improved over his whole career, which has turned him into a fantastic player.
You had a big part to play in Bayern's win over PSG. Are you enjoying your football again?
Yes, I'm playing well at the moment, which is down to getting more minutes on the pitch. This means that things are coming off; when you play you can put your talents to the test, and everything is easier, particularly when you're playing alongside great players like the ones at Bayern. I'm enjoying myself and just want to help my team win.
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