James Rodriguez enjoyed something of a resurgence at the 2024 Copa America.
The playmaker has struggled during his club career but has always flicked the switch for his national side, and he looked back to his best at moments throughout this summer's tournament in the USA.
Colombia were enjoying a terrific run of form and were unbeaten in 28 games heading into their final clash with Argentina, which ended in a victory for Lionel Messi's side. However, the performances of Colombia's talismanic captain saw him named player of the tournament.
James has now returned to La Liga, where he previously spent six years on the books at Real Madrid.
The Sporting News takes a look at James' career to date and his story so far.
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What team does James Rodriguez play for?
James Rodriguez signed for Rayo Vallecano on a one-year deal on August 26, 2024.
Before that, he played for Sao Paulo in Brazil's first division, Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A.
He joined in July 2023 after a miserable seven-month spell in Greece playing for Olympiacos. The Brazilian team was the 10th club he has represented in his career, and his fourth in as many seasons.
Now, he is back in Spain's top league and playing in the city where first moved a decade ago.
James Rodriguez career record
James made his name for himself on the global stage during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top scorer with six goals.
His most memorable performance was when he hit a stunning volley to help beat Uruguay and reach the quarterfinals, where Los Cafeteros were eventually knocked out by tournament hosts Brazil.
James began his professional career with Envigado in Colombia before moving to Argentina's Banfield. His breakthrough came when he made the move to Europe with FC Porto.
His neat footwork and excellent dribbling ability was highlighted by top clubs before making a move to AS Monaco in 2013. After his World Cup success, Real Madrid signed him for a substantial fee of around €75 million (£63m / $101m).
At the Spanish giants, Rodriguez experienced many highs and lows as he had a tough battle with injuries and struggled to play consistently. He did, however, manage to win two Champions League titles and was a part of the LaLiga winning sides of 2016/17 and 2019/20.
During that spell, he was loaned out to Bayern Munich, where he once again was hit by injuries and he eventually left Madrid on a free transfer to Everton in the Premier League, where he joined up with his former boss at Los Blancos, Carlo Ancelotti.
| Years | Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006–2008 | Envigado | 30 | 9 |
| 2008–2010 | Banfield | 42 | 5 |
| 2010–2013 | Porto | 63 | 25 |
| 2013–2014 | Monaco | 34 | 9 |
| 2014–2020 | Real Madrid | 85 | 29 |
| 2017–2019 | Bayern Munich (loan) | 43 | 14 |
| 2020–2021 | Everton | 23 | 6 |
| 2021–2022 | Al-Rayyan | 13 | 4 |
| 2022–2023 | Olympiacos | 20 | 5 |
| 2023–2024 | Sao Paulo | 18 | 2 |
His time at the Toffees started well but as Ancelotti returned to the Spanish capital, his career on Merseyside fell apart.
James then made the move to Al-Rayyan in Qatar, but even there he couldn't find a return to his peak form.
International football is where he's remained relevant, as he's been key to Colombia's recent terrific form.
James Rodriguez stats for Colombia
Rodriguez's form at the 2024 Copa America has been sensational, as he leads the way in assists.
He's managed six in five matches so far, as well as getting himself on the scoresheet in the 5-0 win vs. Panama in the Round of 16.
Stats correct as of July 14, 2024 before final
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualification | 44 | 12 | 9 |
| International Friendlies | 34 | 7 | 11 |
| Copa America | 19 | 3 | 9 |
| World Cup 2014 | 8 | 6 | 4 |