He was loaned to the Bavarians on a two-year deal after he never really established himself in the Spanish capital. Things did not look much better in Germany, as a reported feud between the Spanish speaking players and the Germans in the Munich squad contributed to Carlo Ancelotti losing his job. Central to this was his inability to play Thomas Muller and James together.
However, in came Jupp Heynkes and everything changed. Rodriguez was dropped into a deeper role, allowing him to dictate play more, and at the same time earning him the respect of his team mates for his defensive work.
"In his current form and how he has integrated himself, James is a God-send for us," said Heynkes.
Team mate Sebastian Rudy said: "It's unbelievably good fun to play with him. He always wants the ball, and you always get the ball from him."
Since October and the arrival of Heynkes, James has been a regular and has return the manager's faith in him with four goals and seven assists.
It looks as if the Colombian is happy in Bavaria, and is happy to continue working with Heynkes, but on this form it might not be long before Real want him back.
6 February 2018