James Rodriguez considers return to ‘elite’ European football

James Rodriguez, the Colombian star and former World Cup Golden Ball winner, has commented on his return to European football after he moved to Qatari side Al-Rayyan following an unsuccessful Premier League stint at Everton. 

“The transfer market will open soon, we’ll see – returning to the élite football is a serious possibility, let’s see who wants my left foot again!”, the 30-year-old said, as per Colombian journalist Pipe Serra. 

The former Real Madrid player didn’t find his move to the Qatar club go as planned. Despite scoring five goals and having seven assists in 14 games, Rodriguez wants to leave his current club and return to Europe. 

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Reportedly, clubs like Aston Villa, West Ham, and Atletico Madrid are keen to sign him, but US club Inter Miami, owned by former United and Madrid star David Beckham, is also in the race. 

Speaking on Twitch, Rodriguez said “At least I’m playing. I’m doing well. I’ve already played many games. I’m happy about that because it’s been a long time since I’ve played so many games in a row. I’m scoring goals, providing assists, and that’s why I came here, to be able to play and get into a rhythm, and to see what happens next as well”.

He continued about his move, “I don’t know, you never know what will happen. Although I would like to go somewhere else. Physically I’m perfect, I’m healthy. They ask me if I would return to Europe, why not? I have the conditions for that, I’m getting into a rhythm. A good option would be the United States.” 

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Rodriguez also opened up about the upcoming Champions League fixture where Real Madrid and Liverpool go head to head in Paris. Noting he had many friends in Madrid, Rodriguez said he’d want Liverpool to lift the trophy, adding that he’s glad Colombian teammate Luis Diaz is gaining popularity at the Merseyside club after moving there from FC Porto.