James Rodriguez remains open to returning to Goodison Park, hinting at Rafael Benitez being the reason he left in the first place.
James Rodriguez’s English adventure lasted precisely for a single season, as the Colombian departed Everton last summer. Signed from Real Madrid on a free transfer in 2020, the playmaker was a bright spark for the Toffees in his early days at Goodison Park
Everton were even lauded for capturing the multiple-time Champions League winner, although they soon realised Rodriguez might not be suited to the Premier League. The playmaker suffered multiple niggling injuries and failed to cope with the league’s physicality.
Despite the difficulties, Rodriguez managed to score six goals and register nine assists across all competitions, although his inconsistent displays caused mistrust within the club. After Carlo Ancelotti abruptly departed to take over at Real Madrid, the Colombian was understandably keen on leaving the club.
Ancelotti was reportedly keen on bringing Rodriguez back to Madrid, but the chances for that to happen were very remote. Moreover, Everton controversially installed Rafael Benitez at the helm. The Spaniard had a bad relationship with Rodriguez during his brief stint at Real Madrid, where the duo had a public fallout.
Benitez straightaway did not count on Rodriguez, and the playmaker actively looked for a way out of the club. He moved to Qatari side Al Rayyan for just over £7 million, which was reasonable considering Everton made a small profit on the attacker.
Rodriguez has opened up about his time at Goodison Park and remains open towards a return to Everton if there was an opportunity in the future. Speaking on Twitch as relayed by Sport Witness, the Colombian revealed he did not have any problems with his teammates and could be open to a return.
“It would be a possibility. If they want to, I would be open to that. I didn’t have any problems with anyone there,” James said on his Twitch stream.
While it could be a good thing to bridge differences, there are significant doubts about whether Everton would want Rodriguez back at the club. While some may still consider re-signing Rodriguez a good opportunity, the Toffees have since changed their policies drastically and moved in a different direction.
The appointment of Frank Lampard is designed to change the club’s approach in every aspect. When it comes to transfers, the Toffees are looking at younger players and professionals suited to pressing, moving away from the style of play Rodriguez is used to.
