São Paulo is facing a delicate situation with midfielder James Rodríguez. Out of coach Luis Zubeldía’s plans and on a high salary, the club is looking for alternatives to negotiate the player.
The Tricolor board sees the Copa América, which will be played in the United States from June 20 to July 14, as an opportunity to attract interested parties in the Colombian.
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James and Tricolor didn’t hit it off
- James Rodríguez has a contract with São Paulo until mid-2025, but the expectation is that his stay at the club will be shortened.
- Luis Zubeldía, who put him on the field for a few minutes in the classic against Palmeiras, does not count on the midfielder in his plans.
- The player, in turn, is also interested in a negotiation that takes him out of Morumbi.
Failed agreements
In recent months, São Paulo and James have tried to reach an agreement for a contract termination, but they have run into the values that the club still owes the player.
Currently, Rodríguez receives more than R$ 1 million per month, a “huge” amount for a player who has not been listed for matches.
Out of São Paulo’s plans
The Tricolor board believes it is not viable to maintain such an expensive player without being used by the coaching staff. Last week, president Julio Casares signaled that the Colombian’s departure is approaching.
According to Casares, the Copa América and the mid-year transfer window will be decisive for James’ future.
“He is a player with a contract at São Paulo, and it is increasingly clear that he is not in the coach’s plans. Now he will have the Copa América, he will be called up, and the window will determine James’ future. We have no offers. The departure (to another club) has to be good for the athlete and especially for the institution,” the president said.
Luis Zubeldía, in turn, explained his choices regarding the squad.
“I use who I think I have to use and put in who I think I have to put in. Nothing personal with any player. We are thinking match by match in São Paulo’s games. And based on what I see, I make the decision that I consider best for the team, no more than that.”
Remembering Zagallo
Sambafoot Series launched a new documentary about the football legend Zagallo. Known as ‘Velho Lobo‘ and as superstitious as it gets, Zagallo helped shape what Brazilian football is nowadays — as a player and as a coach.
Binge the first five episodes available on Sambafoot’s Youtube channel. Stay tuned for upcoming releases as we keep telling this legend’s life story.
