James Rodríguez is leaving River Plate. Despite various reports suggesting an ongoing negotiation between the club and the player, coach Marcelo Gallardo’s comments have dashed the hopes of the fans of the wealthy team.
Following the impressive victory over Talleres in the round of 16 of the Copa Libertadores (3-1 on aggregate), Gallardo addressed potential signings and dismissed any discussions about acquiring the captain of the Colombian national team.
“No, no, no,” he responded when specifically asked about James’ situation.
Gallardo put an end to the rumors surrounding a high-profile signing before the transfer window closes in Argentina. “There isn’t a search for something specific. I want to clarify all the things that have been said. I understand that we’ve been able to secure players of significant quality. However, from there, a big misunderstanding arose that made no sense,” he explained.
Recently, they announced the signing of Marcos Acuña, a world champion from Qatar 2022, which led to expectations of adding another prominent name; however, the coaching staff has different plans.
“I regret to state that this is not the situation. From now on, we want to assemble the best possible squad to compete in the areas we are involved in,” he added.
Gallardo’s statements align with what Jorge Brito, president of River Plate, expressed just hours earlier.
“No, not at all,” said the River president to the microphones of DSports, confirming the reports that several journalists had already uncovered.
James Rodriguez remains a free agent after terminating his contract in Brazil. | Photo: Getty Images
James to Rayo Vallecano?
River has ruled out James Rodríguez by all possible means; however, the Colombian may end up joining a different team.
While Gallardo denied any contacts, in Spain, a significant development has emerged regarding his return to Europe.
Edu Aguirre, a journalist from The Beach Bar and a close friend of James, confirmed that the option of Rayo Vallecano is closer than ever. It could be finalized within the next few hours. It is a very real possibility. James Rodríguez might become a Rayo Vallecano player,” he stated during Wednesday night’s program.
Edu Aguirre mentioned that James is already in the Spanish capital, and if he signs a contract with the red-and-white team, he would return to live in the house he purchased a few years ago when he played for Real Madrid.
The main obstacle to this interest becoming a reality is financial. Rayo Vallecano is not accustomed to offering the substantial salaries that James received in Brazil, which is why it needed a few days to assess the situation before making a formal offer to secure the best player of the 2024 Copa América.
James Rodríguez’s Departure from River Plate: What’s Next for the Colombian Star?
James Rodríguez has officially parted ways with River Plate, dashing the hopes of fans looking forward to seeing the Colombian captain join the Argentine giants. Despite ongoing speculation and reports suggesting active negotiations, coach Marcelo Gallardo’s recent comments have eliminated any lingering uncertainty.
Gallardo Dismisses Signing Rumors
Following a decisive 3-1 aggregate victory over Talleres in the Copa Libertadores round of 16, Gallardo addressed the media and categorically ruled out any discussions regarding James. When asked directly about the player, he simply replied, “No, no, no.”
He continued to clarify the club’s stance on potential signings, stating, “There is no search for something specific. I’m going to tone down a bit all the things that have been said. I understand that we have been able to specify the market for players of an important hierarchy. However, a big mess became made that made no sense.”
Recent Transfers and Future Plans
Just days prior, River Plate announced the signing of Marcos Acuña, the 2022 World Cup champion. Speculation arose on whether another high-profile transfer was forthcoming. However, Gallardo has other plans, emphasizing, “From now on we want to put together the best possible squad to compete on the fronts we have.”
Support from Club Management
Gallardo’s comments resonated with statements made by the club’s president, Jorge Brito, who reiterated to DSports, “No, not at all,” further confirming the absence of negotiations with James Rodriguez.
James Rodríguez remains free after terminating his contract in Brazil. | Photo: Getty Images
James to Rayo Vallecano?
Though River Plate has ruled out James Rodríguez, speculation continues that he might join Rayo Vallecano in Spain. Recent reports suggest that discussions surrounding his return to Europe are gaining momentum.
Jornalista Edu Aguirre from The Beach Bar, a close associate of James, reported that the Rayo Vallecano option is closer than ever. He shared on air that a deal could be closed in the next few hours, stating, “It could be a very real option.”
Aguirre also noted that James is currently in Madrid, and should he secure a contract with the red-and-white team, he would return to the residence he purchased during his time at Real Madrid.
Potential Hurdles for Rayo Vallecano Deal
The primary obstacle to James joining Rayo Vallecano appears to be financial. The club historically has not offered salaries comparable to what James earned while playing in Brazil. As a result, they need more time to finalize their offer before presenting it to the Colombian star.
James Rodríguez’s Career Highlights
Professional Clubs
| Club | Years Active | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Envigado | 2006-2008 | 40 | 6 |
| Banfield | 2008-2009 | 26 | 2 |
| Porto | 2009-2013 | 73 | 26 |
| Monaco | 2013-2014 | 39 | 10 |
| Real Madrid | 2014-2017 | 111 | 36 |
| Bayern Munich | 2017-2019 | 67 | 15 |
| Everton | 2020-2021 | 26 | 6 |
| Al Rayyan | 2021-2022 | 24 | 9 |
| River Plate | 2022-2023 | 29 | 9 |
International Career
James Rodríguez has also made significant contributions to the Colombian national team, representing his country in three World Cups and becoming a key player in various Copa América tournaments.
Benefits of Following James Rodríguez’s Career
As a football fan, following James Rodríguez’s career can be exciting and rewarding. Some benefits include:
- Staying updated on transfer news and player performances.
- Understanding football dynamics and player development.
- Connecting with other fans and discussing strategies and performances.
- Gaining insights into the life and challenges faced by professional athletes.
