Football like life is fast-paced and situation, team dynamics and football players changes as fast as they emerge. James Rodriguez is one player who knows this fact all too well.Once upon a time not too long ago, a “galactico” signing after his 2014 stellar world Cup performances for his nation Colombia, now an unwanted player for Zidane’s Real Madrid after a two season Bayern Munich loan. A situation in which simeone’s Atletico Madrid are hoping to capitalise on by sealing his services.
A month of pre-season and five friendlies have been enough to suggest that Atletico Madrid’s facelift this summer has been a success. The new arrivals have settled and that was shown in the 7-3 derby demolition of Real Madrid in New Jersey.
Yet the excitement surrounding the squad would increase tenfold if they could add one more player before the window closes – James Rodriguez or another No.10 of similar stature.
The Colombian wants to join the Rojiblancos but the deal is out of their hands and Los Blancos aren’t overly keen to negotiate a deal with their cross-city rivals.
Even in the case of his arrival, nothing would be guaranteed as Diego Simeone would have to shift things around to incorporate him into his starting line-up.
STRONGLY IMBALANCED FIRST ELEVEN
Despite the versatility of a number of their squad members, Atletico have just 20 players to call upon – with Nikola Kalinic and Angel Correa to leave – and this could see them come up short while competing in three competitions.
That lack of depth is more visible in the line behind the attack than in any other, with Thomas Lemar, Vitolo and Joao Felix the only specialists.
So other options are being considered and Atletico will do what they can to sign James, but nothing will be possible if Madrid just refuse to negotiate with them.
It would be Atleti’s fourth attempt at finding a No.10 that they lost when Arda Turan left for Barcelona. Neither Oliver Torres, Yannick Carrasco nor Correa have truly made the role their own.
