- James Rodriguez featured in one season at Goodison Park.
- His time was brief but he managed to leave a huge mark on Evertonians.
- The Colombian star has reflected on his time with the club.
James Rodriguez is one of the biggest names to have played for Everton in the Premier League era.
The Colombian was signed by Carlo Ancelotti at the start of the 2020-21 season, and had an immediate impact on Merseyside.
In 27 matches, the midfielder racked up six goals and nine assists in a campaign that saw his side finish 10th in the Premier League.
Rodriguez has reflected on his time at Goodison Park, with the 34-year-old expressing his love for the club.
James Rodriguez is an Everton fan
In an interview with Men in Blazers, Rodriguez was asked if he still has a connection with Everton, and explained that he still holds a fondness for them.
He said: “I’m an Everton fan who always wants the club to succeed, and to the Everton fans, just know that my feelings for you are special, and I carry you in my heart.
“At Everton, I also had a good season. I think the supporters know that it was a short time, but it was very intense.
“There was a connection between them and me; also, I feel like I could have stayed much longer, but the coach who came after changed the whole team, and I don’t think he managed it well.
“Maybe sometime I’ll go to the [new] stadium, maybe my last dance.”
Once the Toffees hired Rafa Benitez in June 2021, it spelt the end of Rodriguez’s short time at Everton, which also meant Evertonians did not manage to watch the Colombian in a life competitive match for the Toffees.
What are the chances of a James Rodriguez return?
Colombia’s most recent Copa America campaign spotlighted that Rodriguez is still a wizard on the football pitch.
After achieving six assists in the tournament – surpassing Lionel Messi’s record – the midfielder will seek to showcase his abilities at the upcoming FIFA World Cup.
A good performance in the summer could attract several clubs to make a move for him, but his recent match fitness would be a concern.
There is little doubt that Rodriguez can still perform and compete at a high level, yet whether he could do this over the course of a season is another thing.
When considering Everton’s situation, a move for the Colombian star would be a risk, and he would not be worth the finite resources the Toffees have at their disposal in the summer.
