Rayo Vallecano, who finished 17th in La Liga last year, have pulled off a real coup shortly before the transfer market closes: James (33) is returning to the European continent after a year in Brazil
What James showed at the Copa America this summer was very reminiscent of the player who enchanted the soccer world in 2014. The Colombian captain set up six goals at the tournament in the USA and scored another himself – and was subsequently named the Copa’s Most Valuable Player. Although the Colombians were unlucky to lose to Lionel Messi’s top favorites Argentina in the final after extra time.
The now 33-year-old’s performances naturally aroused desire. This was also the case in Madrid, where the attacking player with the fine left foot is now returning. But not to Real Madrid, who had released James from Monaco after his outstanding 2014 World Cup in Brazil . James is moving on to Rayo Vallecano after his one-year stint at Sao Paulo FC.
James signed a contract there on Monday for an initially undisclosed period. He brings the experience of 85 La Liga appearances (28 goals) with him to the Spanish capital – all for Real.
Model Falcao – Promising start
In order to be able to pull off the James deal, Rayo, who did not pay a transfer fee for any new summer signing, once again needed “external” help and financial backers. This was also how the then promoted club landed Radamel Falcao in the summer of 2021. He played for Rayo for a total of three years before the Colombian striker icon (105 caps, 36 goals) returned home to Millonarios Bogota.
In contrast to his time at Real, James will have to bake smaller rolls at the extraordinary club from the working-class district of Vallecas. Pure struggle for survival is the order of the day. Although the season got off to a promising start: coach Inigo Perez’s team managed a surprising 2:1 away win at Real Sociedad
