James Rodriguez is heading back to the Spanish capital after stunning Copa 2024
James Rodriguez is heading back to the Spanish capital after stunning Copa 2024 (Image: Yahoo Sports)

Former Real Madrid star signing James Rodriguez entered the limelight again after this stunning run with the Columbian team in the Copa America 2024.

The 33-year-old had earlier been reported to have reached a verbal agreement with Rayo Vallecano over a one-year contract which can be extended to another year, though the attacking midfielder will undergo medical assessment in the coming week before signing a contract.

The Columbian who rose to the limelight after winning the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot for scoring maximum goals in the competition went on to another historic mark as he surpassed the likes of Lionel Messi for most assists in a single edition of the Copa America with 6 this season that took Columbia off to the finals and he won the Golden ball.

However, Rodriguez was without a club serving as a free agent since the end of his contract with Sau Paulo as he intended to return to Europe. With initial links formed with Spanish capital side Atletico Madrid, Lazio came in the bid for the Columbian star. Though Lazio felt the player was “too old” to be signed.

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James however, proved in the Copa America, that the previous Real and Monaco star has much to offer to the game. He scored once and provided six assists that took his nation to the finals before a loss to the Argentines. He was named the Player of the competition for his heroics.

With his prior experiences of winning La Liga and the Champions League playing for Real Madrid, he will be heading back to the Spanish capital to undergo a medical test before formally finalising the deal with Rayo.