Mounting reports across the European media on Monday suggest that James Rodriguez has no place in the plans of new Everton manager Rafael Benitez.
James back in form
Colombian international Rodriguez of course only made the move to Goodison Park last summer.
On the back of another testing season on the books of Zinedine Zidane’s Real Madrid, during which he struggled for game-time, the 29-year-old opted to try his hand in the Premier League for the first time.
And the ensuing campaign, in turn, proved largely positive.
Whilst he was forced to deal with a number of niggling fitness issues, Rodriguez, when fit, slotted into Everton’s midfield with ease, adding some much-needed guile to the club’s ranks.
All told, in 26 appearances across all competitions, the talented South American racked up 6 goals and 9 assists.
James Rodriguez 2020/21 stat update:
Games: 18
Goals: 5
Assists: 7
Pre-assists: 11
Idea balls: ∞ 😏Another major impact from @jamesdrodriguez. 🎯 pic.twitter.com/RM73V3x4pk
— Everton (@Everton) February 7, 2021
Rafa’s mind made up?
Rodriguez’s Everton switch developing in the first place, though, only came about due to the persistence of Carlo Ancelotti, who had previously overseen some of the finest form of the Colombian’s career whilst in Madrid.
In turn, upon the tactician bringing an abrupt end to his Goodison stint early in June, it came as little surprise when speculation surrounding Rodriguez’s future quickly followed.
And, as outlined above, over the last 24 hours, a fresh insight into the situation has been forthcoming.
Those Toffees who remain hopeful of seeing Rodriguez return to the pitch in the club’s colours over the course of the season to come, though, look set to be altogether disappointed.
As per reports stemming from England and Spain alike, Rafael Benitez has already come to a definitive decision on his new midfield talent’s future. The ex-Liverpool and Napoli boss is said to see no place in his squad for Rodriguez in 2021/22.
In fact, according to the Liverpool Echo:
‘Rodriguez has been informed that he doesn’t feature in Rafa Benitez’s plans this season and he is free to leave, should the right offer be tabled.’
James Rodriguez’s Everton future, Rafa Benitez’s transfer stance and wages plan
By @philkecho
— Everton FC News (@LivEchoEFC) August 1, 2021
Where next for the Colombian? 🤔https://t.co/lEPPmt5b7N
— MARCA in English (@MARCAinENGLISH) August 2, 2021
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