According to Marca, James Rodriguez could be forced to move to the Premier League next summer. The Real Madrid star was interested in a move to other parties in Spain or Italy, but a transfer to interested parties like Napoli, Juventus or Atletico Madrid has failed to materialise. As a result, James might move to England, where Arsenal seem to be in the pole position to sign the midfielder.
What can James offer to the table?
Rodriguez needs no introduction whatsoever. The Colombian international was one of the world’s most sought-after players following his breakout in the 2014 FIFA World Cup. However, his progress stifled following his big-money move to Real Madrid. He has failed to make himself a first-team regular and now finds himself in the pecking order in Zinedine Zidane’s setup.
Nonetheless, James is still regarded as a quality individual. An attacking midfielder by trade, the 28-year-old is primarily known for his ability to create chances in the final third. Indeed, he is capable of finding key passes in and around the final third. His proficiency from set-pieces combined with his technical prowess makes him a creator-in-chief.
However, the Real Madrid star also has an eye for goal. James has a vicious left foot and is not afraid to test the goalkeeper from long range. The attacker is also a versatile one as he can play on both flanks.
Moreover, James is a vastly experienced attacker, having made a combined total of more than 200 appearances during his time at AS Monaco, Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Not to mention, he has won 76 caps for Colombia, scoring 22 goals.
Can James solve Mikel Arteta’s attacking problems?
James could be a massive coup for Mikel Arteta for multiple reasons. The Gunners have struggled to find a reliable source of creativity following the departure of Aaron Ramsey. Besides, they have lacked someone who can provide a real spark in the final third, with Mesut Ozil often appearing too massive.
James can fill that role. As iterated earlier, the Colombian is a dynamic attacker, who can add more bite into the Arsenal attack. He can emerge as a creative force for Arteta’s team, operating just behind the main striker in either Alexandre Lacazette or Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
But more importantly, Rodriguez’s versatility will provide Arteta with more tactical options at his disposal. The Spaniard could use him in a wide role, meaning he and Ozil could co-exist in the same lineup, which could make an interesting combination indeed.
