After weeks of speculation, James Rodriguez has officially left Everton. James has left European football and joined Qatari side Al Rayyan. This ends his one year spell in Merseyside. What began as a fairy tale for the Evertonians has rather ended in disappointment.
James was seen as a Hollywood signing that arrived at Goodison solely because of Carlo Ancelotti. The arrival of Ancelotti and Rodriguez was seen as a big positive and a defining step in the direction to bridge the gap to Europe. However, Ancelotti left Everton abruptly in summer when Florentino Perez called. Ever since the Italian’s departure, questions were raised on James’ future.
His agent, Jorge Mendes, offered his client to AC Milan and even though the Rossoneri thought about signing the Colombian, they ultimately went cold on the idea. The Toffees also tried to arrange a player plus cash deal which would see Luis Diaz move to Everton and James move to FC Porto on a season long loan. Porto weren’t convinced to let Diaz go and ultimately the deal was off.
Istanbul Basaksehir came with a loan offer after the end of the English transfer window but the idea of plying trade in Turkey didn’t entice Rodriguez. When it looked like the Colombian was going to stay and people began analyzing how he can fit into Rafa Benitez’s system? That’s when the news emerged that the former Real Madrid playmaker jetted out to Middle East to negotiate a transfer.
James Rodriguez leaves Everton
The Colombian was in talks with Al Rayyan and finally the details came out as James moved to the Qatari side for an undisclosed fee. Further, journalist Pipe Sierra who has been very active on Rodriguez’s move, has revealed further details. James has been presented by Al Rayyan and he will wear the No.10 jersey. Furthermore, he has signed a three year deal with the Qatari side and will earn €7 million a season.
James’ departure frees up around £200,000 per week in the wage bill. Offloading Rodriguez gives Everton some room for movement in the upcoming transfer window. Financial Fair Play massively affected Everton’s transfer business this summer. There are gaping holes in the squad to fill.
James Rodriguez saga has finally ended. It was fun while it lasted.