Rodriguez Returns To La Liga With Rayo Vallecano

Rayo Vallecano has signed Colombia and former Real Madrid playmaker James Rodriguez as a free agent, the club announced on Monday.

The 33-year-old helped his country finish runners-up in the Copa America this summer and was voted player of the tournament.

Rodriguez recently terminated his contract with Brazilian side Sao Paulo before joining Madrid club Rayo, who are celebrating their 100-year anniversary.

“Rayo makes their star signing in what is their most special season, celebrating 100 years of history, of bravery, courage and nobility,” said the Spanish club in a statement.

Rodriguez was the Golden Boot winner at the 2014 World Cup, leading Real Madrid to buy him from Monaco, with the midfielder lifting two LaLiga titles and two Champions Leagues with Los Blancos.

The Colombian spent two seasons on loan at Bayern Munich before departing Madrid in 2020 for Everton, also playing in Qatar and Greece before moving to Sao Paulo in 2023.