James Rodriguez is in limbo and Real Madrid have a choice with him. There are numerous reasons why Real Madrid should keep Rodriguez. Regardless of adding various galacticos, him staying could be the most efficient move Madrid make this summer.
Real Madrid Should Keep Ahold of James Rodriguez
On-Field Impact
Rodriguez was one of the stars going under the radar in Real Madrid’s last La Liga triumph. He contributed 11 goals in 33 appearances in a double-winning season. He also registered 13 assists throughout the season. His goals were often crucial to accumulate points for his side against supposedly lesser teams as Zinedine Zidane fielded star-studded, second-string sides. The Colombian playmaker can occupy numerous positions in midfield and attack. His vision and guile have helped Madrid carve open stringent defences in the past.
The 28-year-old has sublime technique on the ball. His work rate has improved as he’s worked deeper in midfield. He was often deployed as a ‘number six’ during his time at Bayern Munich. James has developed his ball-carrying ability too. If Zidane works on his defensive attitude and uses him as his primary offensive substitute, James can easily fight for a starting spot in the team.
Strength in Depth
Real Madrid has something of a crisis for numbers in midfield. Without James, they’d have five senior midfielders to occupy three starting berths across 50 games. The former Porto player adds to these numbers. He can often act as an alternative to Isco if Zidane chooses a more direct approach in the final phase of games. His versatility also allows him to fit in attack-through the left or right flank.
Luka Jovic faces a race to be fit before the start of the season. Real Madrid has also lost Marco Asensio to an ACL injury that will keep him out for the entire season. Madrid need not look for another left-footed midfielder with the Columbian already being in the squad.
The Galactico Image
James Rodriguez may have gone under the radar in recent seasons. Despite that, his age, ability, and potential still fit him in the galactico image. This is another big reason why Real Madrid should keep him. Madrid have lost some of the fear factor with the sale of Cristiano Ronaldo and the club still has a focus on this aspect of the business. This is seen through the signing of Eden Hazard and the interest in Paul Pogba. Having somebody like Rodriguez in the squad adds to the appeal of the club. He provides an immense market in South America with some considering him as marketable as anybody in the game.
This galactico stockpiling has worked well for Madrid in recent seasons. Such players play their part in the season, scoring clutch goals on big occasions. Rodriguez is a proven superstar and still has time on his side to make it big in Madrid. Solving multiple problems in the squad, it makes complete sense for Real to keep the charismatic Colombian.
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