Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane dropped a major hint at the Premier League clubs by declaring that James Rodriguez faces a “complicated” future at Santiago Bernabeu. Ahead of their pre-season tour, which the Colombian midfielder is excluded from, Zidane revealed his selection dilemma which indicates the Colombian might not feature in his best starting-11.
Rodriguez is on an extended summer vacation after his Copa America exploits and thus, will miss the International Champions Cup games against Chelsea, Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich. With eight other players ruled out, Zidane is relieved to have a big squad at his disposal, however, has disclosed the predicament he faces due to it.
Speaking to the press in North America, Zidane said, “I'm delighted to have such depth in the squad because we're going to need all of them, given that we're involved in so many competitions. Having depth in the squad gives you issues when naming your starting line-up, but such is the way of things when you're head coach of Real Madrid.”
Also read: West Ham United Transfer Rumours: Hammers target James Rodriguez
James has stated his interests in a move to the Premier League and sealing a prominent role for a club instead of being a rotational player. He made only 26 appearances for Real Madrid last season in La Liga and has been starved of regular first-team action. Despite a lack of games, he scored seven goals and provided eight assists, a contribution that has earned attention from the Real Madrid manager.
Zidane said, “The idea with James is the same as with everyone else - he's a Real Madrid player. I'm not going to tell you that James is a starter. He's an important player. We'll see what happens this year, I have a big squad and it's complicated.”
Also read: James Rodriguez and/or Isco have to leave Real Madrid to reach their potential
The Frenchman continued to drop hints subtly by adding, “I have to play the most competitive side I can and I'll do the same thing this season, that's my responsibility.”
James Rodriguez does face an uncertain possibility of being a star Real Madrid player as his inherent ability to play behind a striker doesn’t seem to fit within the 4-3-3 formation. Besides, Isco and Gareth Bale have cemented their positions and on top of that, fans have also made it clear that they see the present team as the best fit.
Many clubs (especially from the Premier League) will be delighted to hear this news as they’re well aware James is keen on a move in order to establish himself in a pivotal role.
Manchester United, Chelsea, West Ham and Paris Saint-Germain are interested in securing his services, but the Red Devils could make him a serious target in case of a failed Paul Pogba move. Furthermore, Jose Mourinho shares the same agent as James Rodriguez, Jorge Mendes, and that could give them an advantage over other clubs.
