Everton sold James Rodriguez back in 2021 after the arrival of Rafa Benitez – now, however, Xavi has revealed that he wishes the Colombian played for Barcelona.
What’s the story?
Well, the 31-year-old spent just one season at Goodison Park after Carlo Ancelotti signed him from Real Madrid in 2020, to the surprise of many across the footballing world.
Rodriguez scored six goals and provided nine assists for Everton in 26 appearances across that 2020/21 campaign.
The Colombia international is now the No.10 at Olympiacos, but Xavi wishes his beloved Barcelona got their hands on the South American during the height of his playing career.
As quoted by Marca in Spain, the Spaniard said: “It’s a shame that James Rodríguez played for Real Madrid and not Barça, I wanted to see him play for Barcelona. He has a lot of quality and talent, he was capable of scoring great goals from any distance.”
Rodriguez’s switch to Real Madrid was the biggest move of his illustrious career, while also being one of the most expensive transfers in football history.
The Spanish giants spent £71m to sign the Cúcuta-born maestro after his outstanding efforts at the 2014 World Cup.
Rodriguez won the Golden Boot award with six goals in five games, while also providing two assists in Brazil.
Xavi’s Barcelona admission speaks volumes for Everton
Things may have ended on a bitter note for Rodriguez at Everton, after Ancelotti departed for Real Madrid and Benitez arrived in his place.
Nevertheless, the Toffees were lucky to have one of the best players of his generation star at Goodison Park, even if it was just for one season.
Unfortunately, Rodriguez played for Everton in the one campaign supporters were prevented from attending games due to the global pandemic.
Had Ancelotti not returned to Real Madrid, Everton supporters most likely would have got the chance to witness the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner playing for their beloved Toffees, which would have been special.
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