Over the years Real Madrid have signed a number of players who they expected to be the next big star in the game. In some cases, the move works out great for both the player and the club, but in other cases, it does not work out for either party. Then there is a sort of grey area, where it does not work out as well as expected but is still somewhat of a positive.
In the case of a player like Vinicius Jr, for example, originally it looked like his signing was not going to work out but over time the Brazilian has proven that he is a player that Real Madrid can rely on in big moments for years to come. However, in the case of a player like Eden Hazard, the transfer was clearly a mistake on the part of both parties.
One player who was supposed to be a key part of Real Madrid's future but did not end up really living up to the expectations was James Rodriguez. But his time at Santiago Bernabeu was not all bad either.
After a standout performance at the 2014 World Cup, James joined Real Madrid for a transfer fee around €75 million. He had a superb debut campaign as well but was eventually lost in the shuffle after the departure of Carlo Ancelotti. He would spend a couple of seasons on loan at Bayern Munich as well before ultimately leaving Los Blancos in 2020 to join Everton, reuniting with the Italian manager there.
James Rodriguez agrees to join Real Madrid's rivals
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, James has reached a verbal agreement to join Rayo Vallecano. It is a one-year contract plus the option for a further season.
So, James is set to return to Madrid but will play for the rivals of his former club. The signing of the Colombian is set to bring some incredible experience and quality to the Rayo Vallecano dressing room.
James last played in Europe for Greek side Olympiacos during the 2022/23 season and the Colombian did not look at his best. He, however, brought his name back into the limelight with a stellar Copa America campaign this summer, taking home the Player of the Tournament award by registering one goal and six assists. Colombia made it to the final, ultimately losing to Argentina.