Real Madrid star James Rodriguez has been linked with a move away from the club in recent weeks but his performance in the 2-1 win over Celta Vigo on Saturday has prompted manager Zinedine Zidane to reconsider. The Colombian midfielder only came on as a substitute with 21 minutes of the second half to be played but the French boss was impressed with Rodriguez.
The win was Los Blancos’ 14th consecutive win in the Spanish La Liga under Zidane, stretching back to last season. Rodriguez, who had made the starting lineup only 17 times in the league last season (coming on nine times as a substitute), was not named in the XI last night either. In all, he has only played 52 minutes in three games this season – including the UEFA Super Cup win over Sevilla.
Only two days ago, Zidane had said that Rodriguez could become a problem for the club. “James is a Real Madrid player and he has a contract with us but it's true that he has played less than others and that could prove a problem,” Zidane had said.
However, he seems to have changed his mind following the win over Celta Vigo. James had come on when the scoreline read 1-1 after Fabian Orellana had cancelled out Alvaro Morata’s goal. But Toni Kroos had the final say with a long-range shot that gave the defending European champions all three points.
“I have seen good things from James and, as you say, yes he will be staying,” Zidane said at the post-match press conference. James had come on and almost earned his side a penalty which was rejected by the referee before he tested Sergio Alvarez with an effort that was on target late in the game.”
“It is not easy when you enter a game and you have to make a difference,” Zidane continued. “Both of them improved the game a little for us.
“That’s what substitutes are there for, to improve the team. The players grew towards the end and that is what is important.”
Zidane not entirely happy with Real Madrid so far
Although Real Madrid are currently top of the table after two wins in two games with Barcelona still to play on Sunday, Zidane knew his side had not impressed enough in the game against Celta Vigo. But at the same time, he was satisfied with what they had achieved so far in the early stages of the season.
“We didn't shine, that's true,” Zidane said. “And there is always a chance that in some games we won't play like we want.
“That’s a part of the work we have been doing. We can improve but I'm happy with how we have performed at this start of the season.
“We've won both of our games and the Supercopa. Now we are going to rest, even though there are the international fixtures.”
