SOCCER
Former Real Madrid player James returns to play in Spain
The Colombian star makes his return to LaLiga, leaving Sao Paulo and rejecting offers from MLS and Saudi Arabia.
Rayo Vallecano has secured their star for the club’s centennial celebrations. James Rodríguez has been officially announced as the newest member of the team. The former Real Madrid star, who won the Champions League with Los Blancos, joins at the age of 33 after being named the best player of this summer’s Copa América. Despite receiving more lucrative offers from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States, James chose to prioritize living in Madrid.
Before the official announcement, Rayo Vallecano’s social media had been teasing the signing with a series of tweets. The first tweet read: “It’s almost coffee time,” accompanied by a video showing the Colombian’s hands preparing a coffee using a machine.
A second tweet followed: “Just a quick change of clothes and we’re set,” featuring a shot of James picking up a Rayo Vallecano jersey.
The attacking midfielder had previously terminated his contract with São Paulo, freeing him up to fulfill his desire to return to Europe. Many clubs expressed interest in signing the Colombian, and his name was offered to several more. Ultimately, Rayo Vallecano was the club most committed to bringing him in, and they reached an agreement that has excited all parties involved. According to sources consulted by this newspaper, James signed the contract today, Monday, for a one-year deal with an option to extend for an additional year. What’s more, he turned down significant offers from MLS and Saudi Arabia, motivated by his desire to live in Madrid once again.
A new star following in his compatriot Falcao’s footsteps
James joins Vallecas after a career filled with both highs and lows in terms of performance, but with an enviable collection of trophies. The Colombian has 24 team titles to his name and two individual awards from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, including the Puskás Award and the Golden Boot for his six goals. He has won league titles in Spain (2 with Real Madrid), Germany (2 with Bayern Munich), Portugal (3 with Porto), Argentina (with Banfield), and a Copa do Brasil with São Paulo. On the European stage, he has also secured two Champions League titles and one Europa League.
The “Cafetero” will strengthen an attacking midfield already featuring Trejo and Isi, the latter of whom coach Iñigo has repositioned. It’s expected that Isi will return to the wing to make room for the new signing. Chocota will provide competition in a position that promises to be brimming with talent and creativity. One of the key figures behind this transfer was Radamel Falcao, whose own experience at Vallecas left him deeply attached to the club, creating a unique bond. “El Tigre” has become a true Rayo fan and advised his compatriot to make the same decision he did in 2021.