James Rodríguez, the Colombian playmaker, has made a return to the Spanish league as he signed with Rayo Vallecano, a Madrid-based club. This move marks his comeback to Spain after departing Real Madrid four years ago to join Everton in the Premier League. The 33-year-old Rodríguez saw his contract with Brazilian club Sao Paulo terminated following his role in leading Colombia to a runner-up position in the Copa America. At the tournament, he provided six assists and was honored as the most valuable player.
Reports suggested that Rodríguez had received offers from teams in Saudi Arabia and the United States, but he ultimately opted to join Rayo Vallecano. This season, Rayo is commemorating its centennial and has started the league with a 2-1 victory over Real Sociedad and a goalless draw with Getafe.
Expressing his enthusiasm for this new chapter, Rodríguez stated, “I feel great joy to join a historic club like Rayo. I really want to do things well. I feel that responsibility wherever I go. I like to win. Especially in such an important year for the club.” This signing heralds a fresh start for Rodríguez in Spain’s top-flight league.