How Ronaldo prevented Rodriguez from £60m Chelsea move – report

Mark Scott
Cristiano Ronaldo: Tempted team-mate to stay

Cristiano Ronaldo: Tempted team-mate to stay

An intervention from Cristiano Ronaldo reportedly stopped James Rodriguez from leaving Real Madrid in January

The Colombian international revealed last month that he wanted to leave the La Liga giants after struggling to nail down a regular starting spot, but performed a U-turn shortly after the transfer window opened.

And now according to Confidencial Colombia, the change of heart was inspired by Ronaldo who urged the playmaker to snub interest from the Premier League and fight for his place at the Bernabeu instead.

Rodriguez did seriously consider moving to Chelsea but opted against doing so in the end after Ronaldo’s plea.

The 25-year-old’s quest to become a first-team regular at Real Madrid has recently been hindered by a niggling thigh problem.