James Rodríguez set to leave São Paulo - Transfer to MLS?

©TM/IMAGO

After just six months at the club, James Rodríguez's time at São Paulo FC appears to have come to an end. Although not confirmed at this point, according to media reports, the club and player have agreed to terminate his contract. The main reason cited by the club is the midfielder's lack of attitude.

Market Value

J. Rodríguez Attacking Midfield

€4.50m

Rodríguez himself also wants to leave the club. As Globo Esporte reports, the player explained that he has few prospects left in the team and would like to stay close to his family. The Colombian was recently left out of the squad for the final of the Brazilian Super Cup against Palmeiras and is even said to have refused to accompany the team to the Mineirão stadium for the final. When asked about Rodríguez, São Paulo sporting director Carlos Belomonte said: "Brazilian soccer is more intense and he was unable to adapt. He is a player from a different league. Since he's not playing, he's not happy, but no player is bigger than the club."

Rodríguez moved back to South America to join São Paulo FC in July 2023 after 13 years in Europe and Qatar. He only played 14 games there, only one of which lasted the full 90 minutes. The criticism of Rodríguez is not new. His former coach Rafael Benítez already stated in 2021: "James prefers money and a comfortable life. That is more important to him than competition and success in football".

Stats

J. Rodríguez Attacking Midfield

Career stats–
All competitions

Games

474

Goals

122

Assists

150

Despite the accusations: Several clubs interested in James Rodríguez

Although the market value of the former FC Bayern and Real Madrid player, who was once valued at €80m, has now fallen to €5m and although he has repeatedly struggled with disciplinary problems, interest in the Colombian international shows no sign of abating.

Earlier this month, shortly before the rumors of a contract termination, there were reports that Turkish power house Besiktas were interested. The transfer window in Turkey closes today, Friday, February 9, 2024. Should the transfer not come to fruition, MLS clubs Columbus Crew and Real Salt Lake City in particular are interested in the 32-year-old. The fact that Rodríguez's family lives in the USA could speak in favor of a move to the MLS.