James Rodriguez returns to action in Palmeiras goalless draw

James Rodriguez signed for Sao Paulo last summer as a free agent and with the intention of getting playing time in order to be in top form for the Copa America. Since his arrival, the Colombian has made eight appearances, scored one goal and provided one assist.

The former Real Madrid player had been absent from his team's last three games due to a muscle injury, but was able to return to play in the Paulista derby against Palmeiras, although only for the final five minutes. The match ended in a 0-0 draw and James was unable to do much. 

The Colombian is facing a new stage in his career with the Brazilian team, as they have replaced Carpini, a coach under whom the Colombian had a secondary role. The arrival of Luis Zubeldia gives him a glimmer of hope to become a protagonist and be, in the Copa America, the leader that Colombia needs.

James Rodriguez has already made a good impression in the friendly match against Spain, which shows that he still has a lot of football to show. It is a matter of time to see how he evolves after recovering from injury to consider whether he can be a star player in the Brazilian league and, subsequently, in the international tournament.