James Rodriguez’s contract with São Paulo will come to an end, this time for good. After much speculation about the Colombian’s future after being chosen as the best player of the Copa América, it was confirmed that he will terminate his contract and become a free agent.
“It is an institutional decision, together with the interests of the player. I cannot say more about it. You have to ask the board and the player,” said coach Luis Zubeldía, in the press conference after the goalless draw against Juventude in the 18th round of the Brasileirão.
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The Argentine sidelined the midfielder since his arrival in April. At the end of last year, the player had plans to leave the club, although he later reversed his decision and was reinstated in the first team by decision of the then coach Thiago Carpini.
What changed in these three months was the great Copa America of the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich player, who just turned 33, which increased his value on the international market. He led the tournament’s assists table with six and led his team to the final, which they lost 1-0 to Argentina.
James Rodríguez es el Mejor Jugador Betano de la CONMEBOL Copa América USA 2024™️ pic.twitter.com/YGWvumksgP
— CONMEBOL Copa América™️ (@CopaAmerica) July 15, 2024
As a free agent, he is keen to return to Europe. The Spanish press has mentioned several interested teams, including Atlético Madrid and Betis, although there was also talk of an inquiry by undefeated German champions Bayer Leverkusen.
Journalist Pedro Almeida said that Porto has already started talks to arrange a return. James Rodriguez played for that Portuguese team for three seasons, between 2010 and 2013, which was the start of his journey in Europe.
🚨🇨🇴 Breaking: Porto is in talks with James Rodriguez for a possible return to Portugal. #Porto pic.twitter.com/yeDXiojwB6
— Pedro Almeida (@pedrogva6) July 21, 2024
