Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez has made a surprise return to Spanish football, signing a one-year contract with Rayo Vallecano with an option to extend for another season. The 33-year-old, who was recently named the best player at the 2024 Copa América, joins Rayo after terminating his contract with Brazilian club São Paulo.This move marks Rodríguez’s return to La Liga after leaving Real Madrid in 2020. During his time with Real Madrid from 2014 to 2020, Rodríguez won two Champions League titles and two Spanish league championships. His career has also included stints with Porto, Monaco, Bayern Munich, Everton, and Al-Rayyan.Rayo Vallecano, currently celebrating its centenary season, sees Rodríguez’s signing as a major coup. The club’s president, Raúl Martín Presa, played a key role in securing the deal. Rodríguez expressed his excitement about joining Rayo, stating, ‘I feel great joy to join a historic club like Rayo. I really want to do things well. I like to win, especially in such an important year for the club’.Rodríguez could make his debut for Rayo as soon as August 27 against FC Barcelona. His arrival at Rayo follows in the footsteps of his compatriot Radamel Falcao, who played for the club from 2021 to 2024.This transfer comes after a summer where Rodríguez showcased his skills at the Copa América, contributing six assists and one goal in six games for Colombia. Despite reported interest from clubs in Saudi Arabia and the United States, Rodríguez chose to return to Spain, potentially setting the stage for a career resurgence in a league where he previously excelled.
Key points
- James Rodríguez has signed a one-year contract with Rayo Vallecano, returning to Spanish football.
- Rodríguez was named the best player at the 2024 Copa América, showcasing his continued abilities.
- This signing is a major coup for Rayo Vallecano, which is celebrating its centenary season.
- Rodríguez could make his debut for Rayo as soon as August 27 against FC Barcelona.
