The Copa América might not have the same allure as the Euros, but it never lacks drama. The latest star of the tournament is none other than James Rodríguez. In three group stage matches, James has provided three assists, helping Colombia top their group ahead of favorites Brazil. Remarkably, the nearly 33-year-old has been named Man of the Match twice.
James's Unexpected Revival
For fans, James's resurgence is a pleasant surprise, especially since he was recently sidelined by São Paulo. The club's president bluntly stated, "If James leaves, it’s better for both the player and the club." Thus, Colombia's No. 10 entered the tournament as an underdog, yet his inclusion in the Copa América Best XI is a form of spiritual redemption.
Colombia’s coach, buoyed by an impressive 26-match unbeaten streak, defended his star: "Criticism of James pains me because I trust him. Age is just a number; he runs less now but thinks more." Despite not being a visual spectacle, James's influence remains significant for Colombia.
Stellar Performances on the Field
Against Paraguay, James provided two assists, becoming the first Colombian in 17 years to achieve this in a Copa América match. His precise passes were described as "art" by Colombian media. Against Costa Rica, he orchestrated the game with pinpoint accuracy. Facing Brazil, he made three key passes, created a goal, earned a yellow card, won eight duels, and made four tackles. Even with 18 turnovers, his overall performance was commendable.
Career Highlights and Future Prospects
James's three assists in a single Copa América match are a first for a Colombian since Carlos Valderrama in 1987. This performance has helped him shake off his negative emotions, and he has hinted at wanting to contribute to Colombian football before retiring. Nine years ago, Valderrama praised James, saying, "Great players always play well, and James has no limits."
Despite these highs, James's career has been inconsistent. Over the past 12 years, he has played for ten teams and faced six contract terminations in the last five years. As his departure from São Paulo looms, fans are left wondering when he will retire.
In the wake of his Copa América success, James seems rejuvenated. Clubs like Beşiktaş and Celta Vigo have contacted his agent, Jorge Mendes. Though he still possesses skill and talent, his value has dropped to €4.5 million, and his high salary often makes him a risky investment. For instance, James earned $2.5 million at São Paulo but played only eight times this season, while his 37-year-old teammate Gustavo played 17 matches.
James's initial confidence in dominating Brazilian football has waned: "Football careers are short, usually until around 34." His words reflect his fluctuating state and emotions. The Copa América might offer him a stage to shine, but it’s also a fight for his career survival.
In 2011, James won the Toulon Tournament MVP, leading Colombia U20 to victory. He was the Portuguese League Player of the Year in 2012, Ligue 1 Assist King in 2014, and won the Golden Boot at the 2014 World Cup. Just ten days after the World Cup, he achieved his "Royal Dream" by joining Real Madrid for €80 million. Maradona once called him "the best player in Latin America" in 2015.
If his career had continued upward, James could have lived up to these praises. Unfortunately, his peak under Ancelotti was short-lived, and he struggled under Benítez and Zidane, missing out on key matches and the Champions League final. Critics argue that his playing style is outdated, but his lack of self-reflection may have hindered his success: "I don't know why Benítez targeted me."
James's story is one of highs and lows. He revived at Bayern under Ancelotti and Heinkes, but Kovac's indifference and a knee injury ended his time there. His brief resurgence at Everton under Ancelotti was marred by off-field distractions and Benítez’s arrival. Despite his decline, James continues to seek redemption, although his past habits often surface, as seen in his social media antics and lack of focus at Everton.
Joining Olympiacos seemed like a step down, but injuries and high salary demands thwarted his return to top form. James's journey is marked by frequent setbacks, often blamed on external factors. His failure to adapt to various environments, tactics, and coaches has contributed to his current plight.
As James moves further from Europe's top leagues, comparisons to his peak years are inevitable. Despite his dominance in Qatar, he longed for European football, leading to a self-funded exit from his "retirement plan." His brief stint at Olympiacos showed he could still shine, but injuries and financial demands hindered a full comeback.
Ultimately, James’s career reflects a series of missed opportunities and unfulfilled potential. While his Copa América performance might boost his chances of finding a new club, the question remains: can he sustain this form and avoid becoming a cautionary tale? Potential suitors must weigh the risks, knowing that one misstep could lead to another round of disappointment.
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