James Rodriguez won't make Rayo debut in Barcelona clash

James Rodriguez, who became a new player for Rayo Vallecano on Monday, will not make his debut for the Madrid side in Tuesday's La Liga match against Barcelona.

With his move to Rayo, James, who was voted best player at the last Copa America, returns to the Spanish league, where he played for several seasons with Real Madrid (2014-2017 and 2019-2020).

"It's a bit of a wait because he's coming back from a rest after the Copa America but we're very happy with his arrival," said his new coach Inigo Perez at the pre-match press conference ahead of the match against Barcelona.

"James can play in all three midfield positions. Where he has done best is as a midfielder, but he can also play as an eight. He will do well in any position," said the Spanish manager.

"My experience with people who have achieved a lot, recently Falcao, is that there are two ways. Either they are inaccessible to the rest or they don't fail on a sporting or human level. If he is here it will be the second one."

 

August 26, 2024