According to Cope Desportes, Real Madrid manager Zinedine Zidane has radically changed his mind regarding the transfer of James Rodriguez. It was earlier reported that the Colombian international was set to join Gareth Bale on the move away from Santiago Bernabeu. But, the Spanish radio station believes that Zidane now considers James as a valuable member of the squad.
How will James fit into the Real Madrid attack?
Real Madrid have a stacked attacking department, having brought in the likes of Eden Hazard, Rodrygo and Luka Jovic this summer. Therefore, it will be difficult for Zidane to accomodate James into his 4-3-3 shape unless the Frenchman leaves out Isco from the starting lineup.
Isco’s potential omission from the starting lineup will pave the way for Rodriguez to feature in the extra midfield slot in a 4-3-3. It could also work in a 4-2-3-1 with the Colombian operating as the lone attacking midfielder. Alternatively, he can feature on the wings, but that will restrict both Marco Asensio and Vinicius Junior from getting a starting berth, provided Hazard remains a guaranteed starter.
A lot will depend on whether or not Real Madrid choose to sell any one of Asensio or Isco this summer. Los Blancos have already rejected the notion of offloading Vinicius earlier week, so that seems far-fetched.
How will James benefit the Real Madrid fit?
It’s one thing fitting into the Real Madrid attack. But, it’s an entirely different thing to make yourself useful to that attack. James, in that regard, could be successful given his ability to find valuable passes in behind the backline. The Colombian international is also an excellent ball-carrier that will ease Madrid’s transition from midfield to attack.
But most importantly, the 28-year-old is a versatile attacker, who can effortlessly shift into a wider role even during the game – giving Zidane tactical flexibility in the final third. Furthermore, he is a threat from long-range – potentially making him an upgrade over Isco, although the Spaniard is much more technically gifted.
Should Real Madrid offload James?
As mentioned earlier, Rodriguez has the quality to benefit the Real Madrid attack, which is going to be needing a lot of firepower if they are to compete with Barcelona this season.
The presence of James, in that regard, would help Los Blancos retain a splash of creativity in the final third. The Colombian also has vast experience at the highest level of football, and his overall talent is sure to enhance the quality of Real Madrid this campaign.
