James Rodriguez is enjoying something of a resurgence at the 2024 Copa America.
Rodriguez has struggled during his club career but has always flicked the switch for his national side, and he has looked back to his best at moments throughout this summer’s tournament in the USA.
Colombia are enjoying a terrific run of form and are unbeaten in 27 games heading into their semifinal clash with Uruguay on Wednesday. Much of that success is down to their talismanic captain.
The Sporting News takes a look at James’ career to date and his story so far.
MORE: Copa America 2024 bracket and results, updated LIVE | Copa America top scorers, who is leading the Golden Boot race | How to watch all the Copa America action
What team does James Rodriguez play for?
James Rodriguez currently plays for Sao Paulo in Brazil’s first division, Campeonato Brasileiro Serie A.
He joined in July 2023 after a miserable seven-month spell in Greece playing for Olympiacos.
The Brazilian team is the 10th club he has represented in his career, and his fourth in as many seasons.
James Rodriguez career record
Rodriguez made his name for himself on the global stage during the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
His most memorable performance was when he hit a stunning volley to help beat Uruguay and reach the quarterfinals, where Los Cafeteros were eventually knocked out by tournament hosts Brazil.
James began his professional career with Envigado in Colombia before moving to Argentina’s Banfield. His breakthrough came when he made the move to Europe with FC Porto.
His neat footwork and excellent dribbling ability was highlighted by top clubs before making a move to AS Monaco in 2013. After his World Cup success, Real Madrid signed him for a substantial fee of around €75 million (£63m / $ 101m).
At the Spanish giants, Rodriguez experienced many highs and lows as he had a tough battle with injuries and struggled to play consistently. He did, however, manage to win two Champions League titles and was a part of the LaLiga winning sides of 2016/17 and 2019/20.
During that spell, he was loaned out to Bayern Munich, where he once again was hit by injuries and he eventually left Madrid on a free transfer to Everton in the Premier League, where he joined up with his former boss at Los Blancos, Carlo Ancelotti.
| Years | Team | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2006–2008 | Envigado | 30 | 9 |
| 2008–2010 | Banfield | 42 | 5 |
| 2010–2013 | Porto | 63 | 25 |
| 2013–2014 | Monaco | 34 | 9 |
| 2014–2020 | Real Madrid | 85 | 29 |
| 2017–2019 | Bayern Munich (loan) | 43 | 14 |
| 2020–2021 | Everton | 23 | 6 |
| 2021–2022 | Al-Rayyan | 13 | 4 |
| 2022–2023 | Olympiacos | 20 | 5 |
| 2023– | Sao Paulo | 18 | 2 |
His time at the Toffees started well but as Ancelotti returned to the Spanish capital, his career on Merseyside fell apart.
James then made the move to Al-Rayyan in Qatar, but even there he couldn’t find a return to his peak form.
International football is where he’s remained relevant, as he’s been key to Colombia’s recent terrific form.
James Rodriguez stats for Colombia
Rodriguez’s form at the 2024 Copa America has been sensational, as he leads the way in assists.
He’s managed five in four matches so far, as well as getting himself on the scoresheet in the 5-0 win vs. Panama in the Round of 16.
Stats correct as of July 10, 2024
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| World Cup Qualification | 44 | 12 | 9 |
| International Friendlies | 34 | 7 | 11 |
| Copa America | 18 | 3 | 8 |
| World Cup 2014 | 8 | 6 | 4 |
