James Rodríguez wants to end his career on a high note with a new adventure. The way his former teammate Toni Kroos said goodbye has inspired the 33-year-old Colombian.
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Clubs looking for a pure playmaker with an impressive résumé should pay attention to James Rodríguez, who is currently a free agent after a mutual agreement led to the termination of his contract with São Paulo.
The Colombian star, known for his technical brilliance and vision on the pitch, has enjoyed an illustrious career, having played for top European clubs like AS Monaco, Bayern Munich, and Real Madrid. Despite being 33, Rodríguez continues to attract interest from clubs worldwide, and his recent performances suggest he still has much to offer at the highest level.
Rodríguez's departure from São Paulo marks another chapter in his globe-trotting career. His time in Brazil, though brief, was a mix of highs and lows. While he showed glimpses of his undeniable talent, the Brazilian league's physical demands and the club's fluctuating form led to an early exit. However, this departure has not diminished his reputation. If anything, his status as a free agent has sparked renewed interest from clubs eager to acquire a player of his caliber without paying a transfer fee.
Rodríguez recently reminded everyone of his capabilities during the Copa América, where he played a pivotal role for Colombia. With six assists in six appearances, he was the tournament's leading assist provider, underlining his creative prowess. His performance was instrumental in helping Colombia reach the final, though they ultimately fell to Argentina. This impressive display has only fueled Rodríguez's desire to continue competing at the top level, with his sights set on the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
The big question now is which club will secure the services of this World Cup 2014 standout. There have been rumors that Celta de Vigo has made a contract offer, but no official agreement has been reached. Other Spanish clubs like Valencia and Rayo Vallecano have also been linked with the Colombian playmaker, but as of now, nothing concrete has materialized.
In a recent interview with streamer Pelicanger, Rodríguez expressed his ambition to continue playing in a top European league. He emphasized his desire to finish his career on a high note, much like his former Real Madrid teammate Toni Kroos. "My daughter wants me to keep playing until I'm 39. My mentality will be decisive. I want to be able to retire at the top, just like Toni Kroos did," Rodríguez said.
Kroos, who retired from club football after winning the Champions League with Real Madrid, set a high standard for players looking to bow out at the peak of their careers. After a decade at the Santiago Bernabéu, where he won multiple titles, including six Champions League trophies, Kroos decided to hang up his boots following Germany's exit from the European Championship. His decision to retire while still playing at the highest level has clearly inspired Rodríguez, who is now searching for a club that will allow him to achieve a similar send-off.
Rodríguez’s next move will be closely watched by fans and pundits alike. His decision will likely be influenced not just by financial considerations but by the opportunity to play regularly in a competitive environment, which could keep him in contention for Colombia's national team as they prepare for the next World Cup. Whether he returns to Europe, continues in South America, or explores opportunities in other parts of the world, one thing is certain: James Rodríguez is far from done with football, and he is determined to finish his career with the same flair and success that has defined it so far.
Updated: 11:11, 9 Aug 2024
