James Rodriguez tipped to outgrow Everton after Real Madrid ‘mistake’

James Rodriguez

Everton midfielder Abdoulaye Doucoure has claimed Real Madrid “made a mistake” by selling James Rodriguez to the Premier League club.

Rodriguez and Doucoure both arrived at Goodison Park during the summer transfer window. The former in particular was seen as a major coup, having previously played for the likes of Real Madrid and Bayern Munich.

Indeed, the Colombian star has made an instant impact after reuniting with Carlo Ancelotti. He has three goals and three assists from his first nine Premier League appearances.

His form has shown why he has attracted such big clubs in the past – and his new teammate Doucoure thinks he will return to the elite one day.

“I think Real Madrid made a mistake by letting him go,” Doucoure told Onze Mondial (via Sport Witness).

“I was able to talk to him. He told me Zidane had his starting XI, and it was hard to break in.

“Real Madrid have a lot of great players, but James is a magnificent footballer. He has everything. I understand why they paid €80m for him.

“He had a good spell at Bayern Munich even if he wasn’t kept. Sooner or later, he’ll return to a very big club, because he’s got great qualities. He was just lacking minutes and confidence.”


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Doucoure living the dream alongside James

Doucoure, who joined from Watford after their relegation from the Premier League, has also contributed to Everton‘s decent start to the season – even if their form has faltered somewhat in recent weeks.

The midfielder explained in further detail why he thinks Rodriguez has got back to his best – while admitting that the 29-year-old is the kind of player he has always wanted to play alongside.

“This year, he’s at his level, he’s good mentally and physically,” Doucoure continued.

“He’s also with a manager who knows him well. We all benefit from it.

“I’ve always dreamt of finding myself with great players. These days, that’s the case. I hope it’s not going to stop there.”

READ MORE: Man Utd’s James Rodriguez snub explained – but Sir Alex knew better