James Rodríguez

Born in Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, James spent his childhood in the city of Ibagué, Tolima. He was born to ex-footballer Wilson James Rodríguez Bedoya and Maria Del Pilar Rubio.{{Cite web|date=27 June 2014|title=James Rodríguez: the meteoric rise of a new Colombian football superstar|url=http://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jun/27/james-rodriguez-colombia-football-superstar-world-cup-2014-brazil|access-date=18 July 2021|website=The Guardian|language=en}}

James started his professional football career in 2006 with the Colombian second division club Envigado, with which he reached the Colombian first division through the 2007 promotion.{{cite web|title=James Rodriguez: The Life Story Of Colombia's Brightest Star|url=http://worldsoccertalk.com/2014/07/03/james-rodriguez-the-life-story-of-colombias-brightest-star/|website=World Soccer Talk|date=3 July 2014|access-date=9 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605201623/http://worldsoccertalk.com/2014/07/03/james-rodriguez-the-life-story-of-colombias-brightest-star/|archive-date=5 June 2019|url-status=dead}} He became the second youngest Colombian player to start a professional match, playing his first match on 21 May 2006, at the age of 14.{{cite web | url = http://tricoloresenelexterior.blogspot.com.co/2011/03/los-futbolistas-colombianos-mas-jovenes.html | title = Los futbolistas colombianos mas jovenes en debutar | language = es | website = tricoloresenelexterior.blogspot.com.co | date = 10 March 2011 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20170731191303/http://tricoloresenelexterior.blogspot.com.co/2011/03/los-futbolistas-colombianos-mas-jovenes.html | archive-date = 31 July 2017 | url-status = dead }}

In 2008, he was signed by Argentine team Banfield. He made his first team debut on 7 February 2009, and scored his first goal for the club on 27 February with a long range strike in a 3–1 victory over Rosario Central. He finished his first season with a goal in 11 appearances.{{cite web|url=https://espndeportes-akamai.espn.go.com/futbol/jugador/_/id/82816/james-rodriguez|title=Estadísticas James Rodríguez Rubio|editor=(ESPN)|access-date=9 November 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605201628/http://espndeportes-akamai.espn.go.com/futbol/jugador/_/id/82816/james-rodriguez|archive-date=5 June 2019|url-status=live}}

In 2009, he became a regular first-team player, featuring in every game of the Apertura 2009. At just 17, he became the youngest foreigner to score a goal in Argentina.{{cite web |url=http://www.marca.com/2014/06/29/en/football/international_football/1404038474.html |title=James' best kept secrets |work=Marca|location=Spain |date=29 June 2014 |access-date=30 June 2014 |first=Juan |last=Castro |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190605201640/https://www.marca.com/2014/06/29/en/football/international_football/1404038474.html |archive-date=5 June 2019 |url-status=dead }} His second goal for Banfield came on 26 September, when he scored with a strike into the top corner from outside of the area in an important 2–1 win against Newell's Old Boys, a victory that helped Banfield win the Argentine championship for the first time in the club's history.{{cite web | url = http://www.goal.com/en/news/3376/goalcom-youth-football/2010/03/13/1830510/goalcom-scouting-report-james-rodriguez-banfield | title = Goal.com Scouting Report: James Rodriguez – Banfield | website = goal.com | date = 13 March 2010 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | first = Anthony | last = Wright}}

In December 2009, Italian club Udinese planned to make a bid for James for a reported €5 million after the 2010 Copa Libertadores. However, Banfield rejected the bid, labelling it as "insufficient".{{cite web |url=http://www.caracol.com.co/noticias/deportes/rechazan-oferta-de-5-millones-de-euros-por-james-rodriguez/20100215/nota/953948.aspx |title=Rechazan oferta de 5 millones de euros por James Rodríguez |publisher=Caracol.com.co |date=15 February 2010 |access-date=9 April 2018 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141221033452/http://www.caracol.com.co/noticias/deportes/rechazan-oferta-de-5-millones-de-euros-por-james-rodriguez/20100215/nota/953948.aspx |archive-date=21 December 2014 |url-status=dead }}

For the Clausura 2010, on 13 February 2010, James scored a golazo in the match against archrivals Lanús with a left-footed lob to make the game 2–0 in the final minutes. After the game, daily sports website Diario Olé compared his playing and personal style to Cristiano Ronaldo and nicknamed him the "James Bond of Banfield".{{cite web | url = http://www.ole.clarin.com/notas/2010/02/14/futbollocal/02139903.html | title = ¡Qué hijo de Dios! | language = es | website = Diario Olé | date = 13 February 2010 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100325074023/http://www.ole.clarin.com/notas/2010/02/14/futbollocal/02139903.html | archive-date = 25 March 2010 | url-status = dead }}

On 10 February 2010, James scored his first Copa Libertadores goal in a 2–1 home victory over Mexican club Monarcas Morelia.{{cite web|url=http://www.espndeportes.com/futbol/cronica?id=285893|archive-url=https://archive.today/20150118221757/http://www.espndeportes.com/futbol/cronica?id=285893|url-status=dead|archive-date=18 January 2015|title=Banfield se ilusiona: venció a Morelia en el debut|publisher=ESPN Deportes|language=es|date=10 February 2010|access-date=9 April 2018}} James added to his glowing reputation a week later with a goal in a daunting victory over Copa Libertadores group rivals Deportivo Cuenca away from home, scoring the fourth goal of the 4–1 victory with a nice left-footed finish in the box. His wonderful scoring season continued with a brace in the Copa Libertadores group match away to Uruguayan club Nacional on 10 March. James scored first with a diving header and then from the penalty spot in a 2–2 draw.{{cite web | url = http://www.ole.clarin.com/notas/2010/03/10/futbollocal/02156514.html | title = Un Taladro rendidor | language = es | website = Diario Olé | date = 10 March 2010 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20100415024628/http://www.ole.clarin.com/notas/2010/03/10/futbollocal/02156514.html | archive-date = 15 April 2010 | url-status = dead }} The 18-year-old netted another goal against Brazilian club Internacional on 29 April 2010 in the first leg of the 2010 Copa Libertadores round 16, which Banfield won 3–1.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z4kYlKINu4o |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/Z4kYlKINu4o |archive-date=2021-12-15 |url-status=live|title=Banfield-ARG 3x1 INTER – Compacto, Sportv – Oitavas de Final – Libertadores 2010 – 28/04/2010 |via=YouTube |date=28 April 2010 | access-date = 9 April 2018}}{{cbignore}} This goal brought his tally to five goals in seven games. However, James' international season ended in defeat as his team went down on away goals with a 0–2 defeat in Porto Alegre in the second leg, in which James was red carded for two fouls.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/1056/copa-libertadores/2010/05/07/1912475/internacional-2-0-banfield-agg-3-3-inter-progress-to-last |title = Internacional 2–0 Banfield (Agg. 3–3): Inter Progress To Last Eight Of Copa Libertadores On Away Goals| website = Goal.com | date = 7 May 2010 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | first = Anthony | last = Wright}}

File:FCPorto.JPG in 2011]]

On 6 July 2010, James was signed by Porto for €5.1 million, with 30% economic rights retained by other parties. He signed a four-year contract with a €30 million release clause.{{cite news|url=http://www.futbolyou.com/en/articles/CompraJames06072010.pdf|title= Communicado |date=6 July 2010|access-date=30 November 2014|work=FC Porto |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141210203439/http://www.futbolyou.com/en/articles/CompraJames06072010.pdf|archive-date=10 December 2014}} Porto later re-sold 10% economic rights to third parties.{{cite web |url=http://web3.cmvm.pt/sdi2004/emitentes/docs/PC30483.pdf |title=Relatorio e Contas 2009/2010 |publisher=Web3.cmvm.pt |language=pt |access-date=9 April 2018 |archive-date=3 March 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160303200155/http://web3.cmvm.pt/sdi2004/emitentes/docs/PC30483.pdf |url-status=dead }} On 18 July, he played his first game and scored his first goal in a friendly against Ajax.{{cite web |url=http://www.teamtalk.co.za/match/222356/lineup |title=Football {{pipe}} Match {{pipe}} Team Lineups {{pipe}} Friendly Match {{pipe}} FC Porto v Ajax {{pipe}} 18 July 2010 |publisher=TEAMtalk |access-date=15 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924113614/http://www.teamtalk.co.za/match/222356/lineup |archive-date=24 September 2015 |url-status=dead }} In November, Porto sold 35% economic rights (half of 70%) to Gol Football Luxembourg, S.A.R.L. for €2.5 million.Page 40, {{cite web|url=http://www.futbolyou.com/en/articles/RelatorioContas1S10CONSOLIDADO.pdf|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200802033555/http://www.futbolyou.com/en/articles/RelatorioContas1S10CONSOLIDADO.pdf|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 August 2020|title=Relatório e Contas Consolidado 2010/2011 (1º Semestre)|trans-title=Half-yearly report 2010/2011|access-date=30 October 2014|work=FC Porto|language=pt}}

On 15 December 2010, James scored his first competitive goal during a 3–1 Europa League home victory against Bulgarian club CSKA Sofia.{{Cite web|date=15 December 2010|title=Porto put on a spurt to sink CSKA Sofia|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefaeuropaleague/news/01ec-0e76a5cc3ced-6a8248e56ea0-1000--porto-put-on-a-spurt-to-sink-cska-sofia/|access-date=18 July 2021|website=UEFA|language=en}} On 17 May, Porto bought the remaining 30% economic rights from Convergence Capital Partners B.V. for €2.25 million and once again hold more than half of the economic rights with 55%.{{cite web|url=http://web3.cmvm.pt/sdi2004/emitentes/docs/FR33842.pdf|title=COMUNICADO|trans-title=Announcenment|date=17 May 2011|access-date=9 June 2011|publisher=FC Porto / CMVM|language=pt|archive-date=13 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110813091358/http://web3.cmvm.pt/sdi2004/emitentes/docs/FR33842.pdf|url-status=dead}} James scored a hat-trick and assisted once against Vitória de Guimarães in the 2011 Taça de Portugal Final, which Porto won 6–2.{{Cite web|date=22 May 2011|title=Dominant Porto sweep Guimarães aside|url=https://www.uefa.com/news/01f1-0e7881aae470-341ed100c389-1000--dominant-porto-sweep-guimaraes-aside/|access-date=18 July 2021|website=UEFA|language=en}}{{Cite web|date=22 May 2011|title=Porto 6-2 Vitoria Guimaraes: James Rodriguez hat-trick helps Dragons to quadruple|url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/3298/portugal/2011/05/22/2498741/porto-6-2-vitoria-guimaraes-james-rodriguez-hat-trick-helps|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110525075249/https://www.goal.com/en-us/news/3298/portugal/2011/05/22/2498741/porto-6-2-vitoria-guimaraes-james-rodriguez-hat-trick-helps|archive-date=25 May 2011|website=Goal.com}} On 13 June, James signed a new five-year contract in which the release clause increased to €45 million.{{cite web|url=http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/FactosRelevantes/ir_renovacaojamesrodriguez_130611.pdf |title=COMUNICADO |trans-title=Communication |date=13 June 2011 |access-date=17 June 2011 |publisher=FC Porto |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110705122806/http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/FactosRelevantes/ir_renovacaojamesrodriguez_130611.pdf |archive-date=5 July 2011 }} He finished the 2010–11 season with six goals and eight assists in 31 appearances. He also took home four trophies: the Super Cup title, the league title, the Europa League title, and the Cup title as Porto had a historic season.{{cite web |title=J. Rodríguez |url=https://int.soccerway.com/players/james-david-rodriguez/72408/ |website=Soccerway |publisher=Perform Group |access-date=20 November 2018}}

In the 2011–12 season, James scored 14 goals for Porto and delivered 11 assists. In 2011, James won the LPFP Award for Breakthrough Player of 2011–12 Primeira Liga season at age 20, becoming the first Colombian player to do so. He is a two-time winner of the SJPF Player of the Month. James won the Portuguese Golden Ball award in 2012, becoming the second Colombian to win the award after Radamel Falcao as well as the youngest player ever to hold the honour.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2013/m=3/news=south-american-hopefuls-enter-final-straight-2039441.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140708200613/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2013/m=3/news=south-american-hopefuls-enter-final-straight-2039441.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=8 July 2014|title=South American hopefuls enter final straight|publisher=FIFA|date=21 March 2013 | access-date = 11 April 2018}}{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1720086-the-15-best-wingers-in-world-football/page/6 |title=The 15 Best Wingers in World Football |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=30 July 2013 | access-date = 11 April 2018 | first = Alex | last = Richards}}{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1632746-manchester-united-5-transfers-who-could-bring-some-creativity-to-their-midfield/page/2 |title=Manchester United: 5 Transfers Who Could Bring Some Creativity to Their Midfield |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=8 May 2013 | access-date = 11 April 2018 | first = Laura | last = Greene}} On 20 September 2011 in a league match against Feirense, he punched Rabiola and was subsequently dismissed, missing the match against Benfica.{{cite web | url = http://www.record.pt/futebol/futebol-nacional/liga-nos/detalhe/james-suspenso-por-1-jogo-718053.html | title = James suspenso por 1 jogo | language=pt | trans-title = James suspended for 1 match | date = 20 September 2011 | publisher = Record | access-date = 11 April 2018}}

In the 2012–13 season, James was given the number 10 shirt and became a regular starter. Since fellow Colombians Radamel Falcao, Fredy Guarín and Brazilian Hulk left the club during the last two seasons, James was able to start more regularly than before. In a match against Olhanense on 1 September, James scored a chip from a tight angle. In the same game, he assisted compatriot Jackson Martínez with a through ball for an eventual 3–2 win. James scored the team's third goal against Beira-Mar soon after assisting the first two goals in a 4–0 victory on 22 September.

In the 2012–13 UEFA Champions League group stage, he scored against French club Paris Saint-Germain in a 1–0 victory, allowing Porto to top their current group.{{cite web|date=3 October 2012|title=Porto's Rodríguez ends PSG resistance|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0202-0e9d736e7b50-f2e0aa334894-1000--porto-s-rodriguez-ends-psg-resistance/|url-status=live|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121006000952/http://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/season=2013/matches/round=2000347/match=2009505/postmatch/report/index.html#rodriguez+cracks+psg|archive-date=6 October 2012|access-date=15 November 2013|publisher=UEFA}} A few days later, James scored a penalty against rivals Sporting CP. Because of his great start to the 2012–13 season, James won the SJPF Player of the Month award for August/September.{{cite web | url = https://desporto.sapo.mz/futebol/primeira-liga/artigos/james-rodriguez-eleito-melhor-jogador-das-primeiras-cinco-jornadas | title = James Rodriguez eleito melhor jogador das primeiras cinco jornadas | website = desporto.sapo.mz | language = pt | date = 4 August 2012 | access-date = 25 April 2018 | archive-date = 23 June 2018 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180623005301/https://desporto.sapo.mz/futebol/primeira-liga/artigos/james-rodriguez-eleito-melhor-jogador-das-primeiras-cinco-jornadas | url-status = dead }}{{cite web | url = http://colombiareports.com/colombia-news/sports/26408-rodriguez-scoops-portuguese-award.html | title = Rodriguez scoops Portuguese award | website = Colombia Reports | date = 8 October 2012 | access-date = 25 April 2018 | first = Simon | last = Willis | archive-date = 12 October 2012 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121012045301/http://colombiareports.com/colombia-news/sports/26408-rodriguez-scoops-portuguese-award.html | url-status = dead }}{{cite news|url=http://www.lpfp.pt/noticias/Pages/Jamesrecebeupr%C3%A9miodeMelhorJogadordoM%C3%AAs.aspx |title=James recebeu prémio de Melhor Jogador do Mês |trans-title=James receives the prize for player of the month |work=LPFP |language=pt |date=4 October 2012 |access-date=15 October 2012 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121114014746/http://www.lpfp.pt/noticias/Pages/Jamesrecebeupr%C3%A9miodeMelhorJogadordoM%C3%AAs.aspx |archive-date=14 November 2012 }} In the Champions League against Dinamo Kyiv on 24 October, he assisted Jackson Martínez to an eventual 3–2 home victory.{{Cite web|date=24 October 2012|title=Porto persevere to down dogged Dynamo|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0202-0e80847d2890-4bf6e8ef5d7c-1000--porto-persevere-to-down-dogged-dynamo/|access-date=19 July 2021|website=UEFA|language=en}} James scored Porto's last two goals in a 5–0 win over Marítimo on 2 November.{{Cite web|date=2 November 2012|title=Porto vs. Marítimo 5-0|url=https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2012/11/02/portugal/portuguese-liga-/futebol-clube-do-porto/maritimo-funchal/1316833/|access-date=19 July 2021|website=Soccerway}} In the 90th minute against Braga, James scored a goal in an eventual 2–0 away victory.{{Cite web|date=25 November 2012|title=Sporting Braga vs. Porto 0-2|url=https://us.soccerway.com/matches/2012/11/25/portugal/portuguese-liga-/sporting-braga/futebol-clube-do-porto/1316851/|access-date=19 July 2021|website=Soccerway}}

Prior to the second half of the season, James suffered a hamstring injury causing him to struggle to maintain fitness. In a match against Nacional on 5 January, he injured his hamstring once more and was subsequently substituted after the first half. The injury sidelined him for a month.{{cite web |url=https://www.dn.pt/desporto/fc-porto/interior/tres-pontos-sofridos-e-um-grande-susto-por-james-2977596.html |title=Três pontos "sofridos" e um grande susto por James |publisher=Dn.pt |date= 5 January 2013 | access-date=15 November 2013 | url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923225201/https://www.dn.pt/desporto/fc-porto/interior/tres-pontos-sofridos-e-um-grande-susto-por-james-2977596.html |archive-date=23 September 2015 | language = pt}}{{cite web|url=http://www.eltiempo.com/deportes/futbol/james-rodriguez-recayo-de-su-lesion-muscular-en-partido-con-fc-porto_12494742-4 |title=James Rodríguez recayó de su lesión muscular en partido con FC Porto |publisher=Eltiempo.Com | date = 6 January 2013 | access-date = 11 April 2018}} On 1 February 2013, Porto bought back 35% economic rights of James from Gol Football Luxembourg for €8.75 million{{cite web|url=http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/FactosRelevantes/ir_RecompraJames3501022013_010213.pdf |title=Comunicado |trans-title=Communication |date=1 February 2013 |access-date=24 May 2013 |publisher=FC Porto official site |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130923061408/http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/FactosRelevantes/ir_RecompraJames3501022013_010213.pdf |archive-date=23 September 2013 }} (by selling 47.5% economic rights of Diego Reyes for €3.5 million{{cite web|url=http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/RelatoriosContas/RelatorioContas1S12CONSOLIDADO.pdf |title=Relatório e Contas Consolidado 2012/2013 (1º Semestre) |access-date=2 June 2013 |publisher=FC Porto |language=pt |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130320020445/http://www.fcporto.pt/IncFCP/PDF/Investor_Relations/RelatoriosContas/RelatorioContas1S12CONSOLIDADO.pdf |archive-date=20 March 2013 }}), which Porto sold in November 2010 for €2.5 million.

James made his return at the 70th minute in the 2–0 victory over Beira-Mar on 23 February, his first match since being injured for more than a month. In his second league match since his return, James assisted a goal against Rio Ave with a wonderful cross. On 8 March, he assisted a goal against Estoril from a corner in a 2–0 victory.{{cite web|url=http://www.eltiempo.com/deportes/futbol/jackson-martinez-marco-gol-en-el-triunfo-del-porto-2-0-sobre-estoril_12666904-4 |title=Jackson Martínez marcó gol en el triunfo del Porto 2–0 sobre Estoril | publisher = Eltiempo.Com |date=8 March 2013 | access-date = 11 April 2018 | language = es}} It was James' first start in two months.{{cite web |url=http://www.portugoal.net/index.php/more-fc-porto-news/39777-porto-back-on-winning-track |title=Porto back on winning track |publisher=Portugoal.net |date=8 March 2013 |access-date=28 April 2013 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130525195910/http://portugoal.net/index.php/more-fc-porto-news/39777-porto-back-on-winning-track |archive-date=25 May 2013 }} James did not start in the second leg of the Champions League match against Málaga until the second half when Porto was down to ten men after the dismiss of a defender. Porto lost the match and coach Vítor Pereira was greatly criticized and questioned why James did not start sooner considering that the player was a key member and Porto could have had a more solid team. James expressed his disappointment, claiming to be "100%" in good health (as well as giving a performance with no struggles shown). However, he also expressed his respect and understanding to the coach's concern.{{cite web |url=http://hereisthecity.com/2013/03/14/manchester-united-target-james-rodriguez-unhappy-being-benched-b/ |title=Manchester United target James Rodriguez unhappy being benched by Porto |publisher=Hereisthecity.com |date=14 March 2013 |access-date=25 April 2018 |archive-date=11 April 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130411022013/http://hereisthecity.com/2013/03/14/manchester-united-target-james-rodriguez-unhappy-being-benched-b/ |url-status=dead }}{{cite web |url=http://hereisthecity.com/2013/03/15/porto-coach-hits-back-at-unhappy-manchester-united-target-james/ |title=Porto coach hits back at unhappy Manchester United target James Rodriguez |publisher=Hereisthecity.com |date=15 March 2013 |access-date=25 April 2018 |archive-date=11 April 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130411020240/http://hereisthecity.com/2013/03/15/porto-coach-hits-back-at-unhappy-manchester-united-target-james/ |url-status=dead }}{{cite web | url = http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/fcporto/james-fc-porto-porto-vitor-pereira/1429734-1304.html | title = Vítor Pereira e James: afinal, quem tem razão? | language = pt | website = Maisfutebol.iol.pt | date = 15 March 2013 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | first = Pedro Jorge | last = da Cunha | archive-date = 6 July 2015 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20150706171554/http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/fcporto/james-fc-porto-porto-vitor-pereira/1429734-1304.html | url-status = dead }} Despite an exit from the Champions League, James went on to become the second-most fouled player in the tournament that year.{{cite web|url=http://www.whoscored.com/Graphics/306/Show?sortBy=Date |title=James Rodriguez vs nani – Champions League Stats (Last 2 Seasons) |publisher=WhoScored.com |date=21 February 2013 |access-date=15 November 2013}}

Manchester United reportedly made a bid for €30 million to purchase James, though Porto rejected the offer as being too low.{{cite web|date=16 March 2013|title=Dragões rejeitaram 30 milhões por James Rodríguez|url=https://www.dn.pt/desporto/fc-porto/interior/dragoes-rejeitaram-30-milhoes-por-james-rodriguez-3112383.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150923225206/https://www.dn.pt/desporto/fc-porto/interior/dragoes-rejeitaram-30-milhoes-por-james-rodriguez-3112383.html|archive-date=23 September 2015|access-date=|publisher=Dn.pt}}{{cite web |url=http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/03/19/man-united-launch-25m-bid-for-in-form-south-american-winger/ |title=Man United Launch £25m Bid for In-Form South American Winger |publisher=CaughtOffside |date=19 March 2013 |access-date=28 April 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130505071851/http://www.caughtoffside.com/2013/03/19/man-united-launch-25m-bid-for-in-form-south-american-winger/ |archive-date=5 May 2013 |url-status=dead }} James scored his first Taça da Liga goal, a penalty, in the 2012–13 Taça da Liga semi-final against Rio Ave. Porto won the match 4–0 and advanced to the final. In the final on 13 April, Porto lost 1–0 to Braga, with James playing 75 minutes. Five days before the final, James gave a man of the match performance against Braga, scoring the first goal and assisting two in a 3–1 victory.{{citation needed|date=March 2025}}

In the final match of the season against Paços de Ferreira on 19 May, James was tripped inside the box and secured a penalty that was later scored by Lucho Gonzalez, which contributed to the 2–0 victory that led to Porto's third consecutive league title.{{cite web|last=Tavares|first=Nuno|date=19 May 2013|title=Unbeaten Porto wrap up 27th league title|url=http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association=por/news/newsid=1954050.html?rss=1954050+Unbeaten+Porto+wrap+up+27th+league+title|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111230002/http://www.uefa.com/memberassociations/association=por/news/newsid=1954050.html?rss=1954050+Unbeaten+Porto+wrap+up+27th+league+title|url-status=dead|archive-date=11 January 2014|access-date=15 November 2013|publisher=UEFA}}{{Cite news|last=Alvarenga|first=Daniel|date=19 May 2013|title=Porto claim title undefeated with Pacos win|language=en|work=Reuters|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/uk-soccer-portugal-idUKBRE94I0BU20130519|access-date=20 July 2021}} In all competitions that season, he scored 13 goals and provided 15 assists in 32 appearances. Winning the league title meant that James, at 21, won his eighth trophy since joining the club three years ago.

On 25 May 2013, it was announced that James had joined AS Monaco for a transfer fee of €45 million, the second most expensive transfer in Portuguese football behind former teammate Hulk. James subsequently signed a five-year contract that was set to keep him at the club until 2018.{{cite news|url=http://www.goal.com/en-gh/news/4398/transfer-zone/2013/05/24/4001585/breaking-news-moutinho-rodriguez-sign-for-monaco|title=Monaco pay €70 million for Porto pair|date=24 May 2013|access-date=24 May 2013|publisher=Goal.com}} This transfer made him not only one of the most expensive transfers in the club's history, but in Ligue 1 history as well, along as one of the highest in world football.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1650526-as-monaco-agrees-to-deal-for-porto-stars-joao-moutinho-and-james-rodriguez |title=AS Monaco Agrees to Deal for Porto Stars Joao Moutinho and James Rodriguez |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=24 May 2013 |access-date=15 November 2013}} James made his Monaco debut against Bordeaux, a game Monaco went on to win 2–0. He then missed Monaco's second league match to avoid a possible injury.{{cite web |url=http://www.planete-asm.fr/actualite/12217-joao-moutinho-toujours-absent-james-rodriguez-de-retour.html |title=Joao Moutinho toujours absent, James Rodriguez de retour – Planete-ASM.fr – Toute l'actualité de l'AS Monaco |publisher=Planete-ASM.fr |date=21 August 2013 |access-date=15 November 2013 |archive-date=17 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131117203614/http://www.planete-asm.fr/actualite/12217-joao-moutinho-toujours-absent-james-rodriguez-de-retour.html |url-status=dead }} On 5 October against Saint-Étienne, James gave a man of the match performance by assisting both goals in a 2–1 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/nationalassociations/fra/domestic/league/1038/ |title=Member associations – France – League – |publisher=UEFA |date=5 October 2013 |access-date=15 November 2013}}

He finally scored his first goal for the club with a free-kick in a 2–0 win over Rennes.{{cite web|url=http://comutricolor.com/golazo-james-rennes-ligue-1-francia/|title=Primer gol oficial de James Rodríguez con el Mónaco|access-date=11 January 2014|archive-date=3 December 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131203020354/http://comutricolor.com/golazo-james-rennes-ligue-1-francia/|url-status=dead}} James scored another goal in the next match in the fourth minute against Nice, a game Monaco won 3–0.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ui182WZVvKY |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131204054233/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ui182WZVvKY |archive-date=2013-12-04 |url-status=dead|title=YouTube |via=YouTube |access-date=14 January 2014}} James began the 2014 calendar year by making his Coupe de France debut in a match against Vannes, where he both assisted and scored a goal in a 3–2 victory.{{cite web|url=http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/vannes-oc/coupe-de-france/live-commentary/live-commentary-vannes-oc-2-3-as-monaco-as-it-happened_128499.html|title=Live Commentary: Vannes OC 2–3 AS Monaco – as it happened – Sports Mole|access-date=11 January 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140108053248/http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/vannes-oc/coupe-de-france/live-commentary/live-commentary-vannes-oc-2-3-as-monaco-as-it-happened_128499.html|archive-date=8 January 2014|url-status=dead}} James' first double at Monaco came in the match against Bastia, a 2–0 Monaco victory.{{cite web|url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/football-james-rodriguez-double-monaco-win-bastia-185546419--sow.html|title=Ligue 1 – James Rodriguez at the double as Monaco win at Bastia – Yahoo Eurosport UK|publisher=Yahoo!|access-date=4 April 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305151102/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/football-james-rodriguez-double-monaco-win-bastia-185546419--sow.html|archive-date=5 March 2014}}

In the French media, James was referred to as "perhaps" the best footballer in Ligue 1 due to his impressive debut season with Monaco,{{cite web|url=http://www.nicematin.com/as-monaco/james-rodriguez-las-monaco-joue-le-titre.1639692.html|title=James Rodriguez: "L'AS Monaco joue le titre" {{pipe}} AS Monaco {{pipe}} Nice-Matin|publisher=nicematin.com|access-date=4 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140305123921/http://www.nicematin.com/as-monaco/james-rodriguez-las-monaco-joue-le-titre.1639692.html|archive-date=5 March 2014|url-status=dead}} although he stated that he still required more time in the league to fully adapt.{{cite web|url=http://www.onzemondial.com/ligue-1/35302-james-rodriguez-est-le-meilleur-joueur-de-ligue-1|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140301045942/http://www.onzemondial.com/ligue-1/35302-james-rodriguez-est-le-meilleur-joueur-de-ligue-1|url-status=dead|archive-date=1 March 2014|title=James Rodriguez est le meilleur joueur de Ligue 1 " Onze Mondial|publisher=onzemondial.com|access-date=4 April 2014}} Following the international break, James scored his first penalty for Monaco against Sochaux in a 2–1 win.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/nationalleagues/nationalleague=france-ligue-1-2000000018/matches/match=as-monaco-fc-sochaux-300241810/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140309001347/http://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/nationalleagues/nationalleague=france-ligue-1-2000000018/matches/match=as-monaco-fc-sochaux-300241810/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=9 March 2014|title=France Ligue 1: AS Monaco – FC Sochaux |publisher=FIFA|access-date=4 April 2014}} James ended his debut season without a trophy, though nonetheless helped Monaco secure a spot in the following season's UEFA Champions League. On an individual level, he earned a spot in the star Ligue 1 XI,{{cite web|url=http://www.mundodeportivo.com/20140511/futbol/ibrahimovic-mejor-jugador-de-francia-james-rodriguez-tercero_54407819411.html |title=Ibrahimovic mejor jugador de Francia; James Rodríguez tercero |date=11 May 2014 |publisher=Mundodeportivo.com |access-date=24 June 2014}} and led Ligue 1 in assists for the season.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.com/stats/assists/_/league/fra.1/french-ligue-1?cc=5901 |title=French Ligue 1 Statistics |publisher=Espn Fc |access-date=24 June 2014}}

{{Quote box|width=30%|align=right|quote="The numbers mean nothing to me. I just want to help make history and bring joy to the Madrid fans. This is a club which is used to winning and I'm prepared mentally and physically to do so. It is a pleasure to be among so many stars and I'm sure I'll learn a lot from everyone. I've always followed Real Madrid and always dreamed of playing here. I've suffered a lot to get here and when you do that then it tastes so much better. I will never forget this day. I hope to work hard, to train well, and to experience a lot of joy here. I know I am under a lot of pressure, but I am happy to face it."|source=James on his move to Real Madrid.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/240/745/1/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140729142130/http://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/240/745/1/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 July 2014|title=James Rodríguez on his move to Real Madrid|publisher=FIFA|date=22 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014}}}}

In a post-match interview during the 2014 FIFA World Cup, James stated his "love", "admiration" and "passion" for Real Madrid, saying that it would be a "life's dream" to play for them after his performances aroused rumors linking him to the Spanish club.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/nationalleagues/nationalleague=spain-liga-2000000037/news/newsid/240/391/6/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150621232409/http://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/nationalleagues/nationalleague=spain-liga-2000000037/news/newsid/240/391/6/|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 June 2015|title=Rodriguez: Real would be a dream|publisher=FIFA|date=12 July 2014|access-date=12 July 2014}}

On 22 July 2014, James signed a six-year contract with the Spanish club for an undisclosed fee, which was reported to be approximately £63 million.{{cite news |url=http://www1.skysports.com/football/news/11835/9390467/transfer-news-james-rodriguez-undergoing-medical-in-madrid-ahead-of-real-move |title=Real Madrid sign James Rodriguez from Monaco in £63million deal |date=22 July 2014 |access-date=22 July 2014 |work=Sky Sports}}{{cite news |last=Rice |first=Simon |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/james-rodriguez-joins-real-madrid-world-cup-star-completes-63m-move-9621152.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140722164405/http://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/transfers/james-rodriguez-joins-real-madrid-world-cup-star-completes-63m-move-9621152.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=22 July 2014 |title=James Rodriguez joins Real Madrid |date=22 July 2014 |access-date=22 July 2014 |work=The Independent}} At the time, this was the fourth-most expensive transfer in the world, the third-most expensive in Madrid's history, and the most expensive Colombian after surpassing Radamel Falcao's €60 million transfer in 2013.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/240/745/1/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140729142130/http://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/240/745/1/index.html?intcmp=fifacom_hp_module_news|url-status=dead|archive-date=29 July 2014|title=Rodriguez: This is a dream move|publisher=FIFA|date=22 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014}} The amount spent on his transfer fee led many to referring James as a Galáctico after he was given the number 10 shirt worn by Madrid legends such as Luís Figo and Ferenc Puskás.{{cite web|url=http://www.ligabbva.com/2544_liga-bbva/2637856_james-rodriguez-zidane-fue-mi-idolo-y-siempre-fui-del-real-madrid.html|title=Página web oficial de LaLiga – Liga de Fútbol Profesional|access-date=23 July 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141025031049/http://www.ligabbva.com/2544_liga-bbva/2637856_james-rodriguez-zidane-fue-mi-idolo-y-siempre-fui-del-real-madrid.html|archive-date=25 October 2014|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/la-liga/10984356/How-Real-Madrid-and-Barcelona-could-line-up-following-stunning-signings-of-James-Rodriguez-and-Luis-Suarez.html |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/archive/20220111/https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/la-liga/10984356/How-Real-Madrid-and-Barcelona-could-line-up-following-stunning-signings-of-James-Rodriguez-and-Luis-Suarez.html |archive-date=11 January 2022 |url-access=subscription |url-status=live|title=How Real Madrid and Barcelona could line up following stunning signings of James Rodriguez and Luis Suarez|date=22 July 2014 }}{{cbignore}}{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2014/jul/22/james-rodriguez-real-madrid-masterplan|title=James Rodríguez: will new galáctico fit into Real Madrid masterplan? – Sid Lowe|first=Sid|last=Lowe|website=TheGuardian.com |date=22 July 2014}}

James was greeted by a 45,000 attendance during his presentation. The Colombian ambassador in Madrid made a speech at the event and carried a message from Colombian President Juan Manuel Santos that James was changing the history of Colombian football and that the entire nation is behind him.{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBCXOQUkYms |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140723042931/http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBCXOQUkYms |archive-date=2014-07-23 |url-status=dead|title=James Rodríguez's presentation as new Real Madrid player| publisher = Real Madrid C.F.|date=22 July 2014|via=YouTube}} Real Madrid President Florentino Pérez would follow with a speech of his own, stating that he welcomed James, a "lover" and "long supporter" of the club who will never forget the day he made his dream a reality.{{Cite web | url = https://www.marca.com/2014/07/22/en/football/real_madrid/1406055549.html | title= Florentino Pérez: "Today you fulfil your dream of playing for Real Madrid" | website = MARCA.com | date = 22 July 2014 | access-date = 1 April 2022}}

File:James Rodriguez - panoramio.jpg

James made his debut in the UEFA Super Cup at Cardiff City Stadium against Sevilla, in which Real Madrid won 2–0. He played 72 minutes before being replaced by Isco.{{cite news|title=Ronaldo, Real sink Sevilla to claim Super Cup|url=https://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/242/028/1/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140815032349/http://www.fifa.com/world-match-centre/news/newsid/242/028/1/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=15 August 2014|publisher=FIFA|date=12 August 2014|access-date=13 August 2014}} On 19 August, James scored his first goal for Real Madrid against Atlético Madrid in the first leg of the Spanish Super Cup after coming on as a substitute for Cristiano Ronaldo at half-time.{{cite web|url = https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/la-liga/11043806/Real-Madrid-vs-Atletico-Madrid-Spanish-Super-Cup-live.html|archive-url = https://archive.today/20140820084145/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/competitions/la-liga/11043806/Real-Madrid-vs-Atletico-Madrid-Spanish-Super-Cup-live.html|url-status = dead|archive-date = 20 August 2014|title= Real Madrid 1 Atletico Madrid 1, Spanish Super Cup: as it happened|date=19 August 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|access-date=20 August 2014}} James made his Champions League debut for Real in the group stage opening match against Basel, where he scored the fourth goal in a 5–1 victory.{{cite news|date=16 September 2014|title=Real Madrid 5–1 FC Basel|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/29210808}} James then scored his first league goal days later against Deportivo La Coruña, where he also supplied an assist in an 8–2 victory.{{cite web | url = https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/29275785 | title = Deportivo de La Coruna 2–8 Real Madrid | website = BBC Sport | date = 20 September 2014 | access-date = 5 June 2020}} James scored a brace in a 4–0 win at Granada on 1 November; his first goal was a dipping volley from a poor angle.{{cite web|title=James Rodriguez scores with stunning volley into the far corner|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/blogs/soccer-dirty-tackle/james-rodriguez-scores-with-stunning-volley-into-the-far-corner-154853035.html|publisher=Yahoo Sports|access-date=2 November 2014|date=1 November 2014}}

In the match against Sevilla in which he scored the opening goal, James experienced a fracture on the fifth metatarsal in his right foot after being fouled. The injury required surgery and he was out of action for two months.{{cite web | url = http://www.marca.com/2015/02/04/futbol/equipos/real_madrid/1423081017.html | title = James estará dos meses de baja | language = es | website = Marca|location=Spain | date = 5 February 2015 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} James returned on 5 April in the match against Granada, where he assisted two goals in a 9–1 victory before being subbed at the 60th minute.{{cite web | url = http://www.marca.com/en/2015/04/05/en/football/real_madrid/1428255700.html | title = James lights Cristiano's fire | website = Marca|location=Spain | date = 5 April 2015 | access-date = 9 April 2018}}{{cite web | url = http://www.marca.com/en/2015/04/05/en/football/real_madrid/1428238968.html | title = James's classy comeback | website = Marca|location=Spain | date = 5 April 2015 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} Days later, James scored his first goal since his injury against Rayo Vallecano in a 2–0 victory.{{cite web | url = https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/match-reports/rayo-vallecano-0-2-real-madrid-5480470 | title = Rayo Vallecano 0–2 Real Madrid: Cristiano Ronaldo and James Rodriguez strike to keep pace with Barcelona | website = The Mirror | date = 8 April 2015 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | first = Zarif | last = Rasul}}

After being left on the bench for his team's season opener, a scoreless draw against Sporting Gijón, James made his first contribution of the season by giving a man of the match performance against Real Betis. The player scored with both a spectacular free-kick and bicycle kick and provided an assist for Gareth Bale.{{cite web | url = http://www.marca.com/en/2015/08/30/en/football/real_madrid/1440889780.html | title = A night to remember for James | website = Marca|location=Spain | date = 30 August 2015 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} On 8 September 2015, during an international friendly match against Peru, James collided with Peruvian player Juan Manuel Vargas,{{cite web|date=10 September 2015|title=Madrid's Rodriguez, Danilo sidelined|url=https://sports.yahoo.com/news/danilo-sidelined-month-foot-injury-141540792--sow.html|website=Yahoo Sports|access-date=14 January 2017|archive-date=1 July 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180701030705/https://sports.yahoo.com/news/danilo-sidelined-month-foot-injury-141540792--sow.html|url-status=dead}} and though he initially appeared able to continue, James was removed from the game as a precautionary measure.{{cite web|date=9 September 2015|title=James Rodriguez, Jackson Martinez suffer minor injuries|url=http://www.espnfc.com/international-friendly/story/2603589/james-rodriguez-and-jackson-martinez-minor-injuries-colombia|website=ESPN FC}} He was diagnosed with a thigh muscle tear,{{cite web|date=10 September 2015|title=James Medical Report|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2015/09/james-medical-report|website=Real Madrid CF}} and didn't return to training until 27 October.{{cite web|title=James, Benzema train on Tuesday|url=http://www.sportsmole.co.uk/football/real-madrid/injury-news/news/james-benzema-train-on-tuesday_254505.html|website=SportsMole|date=27 October 2015 }} James played his first match since the injury on 8 November, scoring in a 3–2 loss to Sevilla.{{Cite news|date=8 November 2015|title=Sevilla 3-2 Real Madrid|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/34749815|access-date=}} On 31 January 2016, James scored and assisted Karim Benzema's goal in a 6–0 thrashing of Espanyol.{{Cite web|date=31 January 2016|title=Real Madrid-Espanyol: 6-0: Real Madrid hand out a thrashing as Cristiano Ronaldo nets a hat-trick|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2016/01/6-0-real-madrid-hand-out-a-thrashing-as-cristiano-ronaldo-nets-a-hat-trick|access-date=|website=Real Madrid C.F. - Web Oficial|language=en}} On 8 March, he scored his first and only goal of the 2015–16 UEFA Champions League, in a 2–0 victory against Roma to help his club get into the quarter-finals.{{Cite news|date=8 March 2016|title=Real Madrid 2-0 Roma (4-0 agg)|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/35749977|access-date=}} His team eventually won the Champions League, with James making 5 appearances.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/022d-0e957c5979eb-37493cb53cd0-1000--spot-on-real-madrid-defeat-atletico-in-final-again/|title=Spot-on Real Madrid defeat Atlético in final again|date=28 May 2016|publisher=UEFA}}

James made 22 appearances when Madrid won the 2016–17 La Liga,{{cite web|url=http://www.laliga.es/noticias/real-madrid-campeon-de-laliga-santander-2016-17|title=El Real Madrid, campeón de LaLiga Santander 2016/17|date=21 May 2017|work=laliga.es}}{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/39926301|title=Real Madrid win La Liga title with victory at Malaga|date=21 May 2017|publisher=BBC}} and six when Madrid won the 2016–17 UEFA Champions League.{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0250-0c5117c008df-de0901ea6dae-1000--majestic-real-madrid-win-champions-league-in-cardiff/|title=Majestic Real Madrid win Champions League in Cardiff|date=3 June 2017|publisher=UEFA}} Despite scoring 11 goals, (including braces against Granada,{{Cite news|date=6 May 2017|title=Granada 0-4 Real Madrid|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39765522|access-date=}} Deportivo,{{Cite news|date=26 April 2017|title=Deportivo La Coruna 2-6 Real Madrid|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/39640901|access-date=}} and Sevilla{{Cite news|date=4 January 2017|title=Real Madrid 3-0 Sevilla|language=en-GB|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/38491053|access-date=}}), as well as providing 13 assists, he failed to gain more playing time under Zidane even with his influence on the pitch, leading him to request a loan transfer for more playing time.{{Cite news|url=https://www.express.co.uk/sport/football/913326/Real-Madrid-James-Rodriguez-Bayern-Munich-Florentino-Perez-Zinedine-Zidane-transfer-news|title=Real Madrid set to recall James Rodriguez from Bayern loan spell after shock twist|last=Otway|first=Jack|date=1 February 2018|work=Daily Express|access-date=2 June 2018}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/james-rodriguez-key-to-bayern-munich-s-27th-german-title-477935.jsp|title=James Rodriguez: the key to Bayern Munich's 27th Bundesliga title |website=bundesliga.com – the official Bundesliga website |access-date=2 June 2018}}

File:James Rodriguez 2019.jpg

On 11 July 2017, it was announced that James was loaned to Bayern Munich on a two-year long deal.{{cite news|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2017/07/official-announcement-james-rodriguez|title=Official Announcement: James Rodríguez|date=11 July 2017|access-date=11 July 2017|publisher=Real Madrid C.F.}}{{cite press release|url=https://fcbayern.com/en/news/2017/07/press-release-james-rodriguez|title= FC Bayern sign James Rodríguez from Real Madrid |date=11 July 2017|access-date=12 July 2017|website=fcbayern.com|publisher=Bayern Munich}} Bayern paid Real Madrid €13 million as a loan fee for the two season-long loan. With James' loan deal to Bayern, he reunited with his old Madrid manager Carlo Ancelotti. Bayern had the option to buy James for €42 million at the end of the loan period.{{cite web|url=https://www.bavarianfootballworks.com/2017/8/19/16173604/james-rodriguez-loan-info-leaks|title=James Rodriguez's loan information leaks|date=19 August 2017|access-date=19 February 2018|publisher=bavarianfootballworks}} He scored his first goal of his loan spell in a 3–0 away win over Schalke 04.{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/41324362|title=FC Schalke 04 0–3 Bayern Munich|date=19 September 2017|access-date=9 October 2017|work=BBC Sport}} After a slow start to his Bayern career, mainly due to an injury in preseason, James rediscovered his form after Jupp Heynckes was hired as Bayern's manager in October as the club sacked Ancelotti.

On 2 April 2018, Bayern's CEO, Karl-Heinz Rummenigge thanked Ancelotti for bringing James to Bayern. "It was a very, very good transfer and I have to thank Carlo Ancelotti once again," Rummenigge said.{{cite web | url = http://www.espn.com/soccer/bayern-munich/story/3440457/bayern-munich-in-no-rush-to-add-james-rodriguez-on-permanent-deal-chief | title = Bayern Munich in no rush to add James Rodriguez on permanent deal – chief | publisher = ESPN | date = 2 April 2018 | access-date = 21 May 2018}} In the semi-finals of the 2017–18 UEFA Champions League season, James scored the equalizing goal in a 2–2 draw against his parent club at the Santiago Bernabéu Stadium, but Bayern failed to reach the final as they lost 3–4 on aggregate.{{cite web |url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/james-rodriguez-bayern-munich-champions-league-loss-to-real-madrid-not-fair-480335.jsp |title=James Rodriguez: "Bayern Munich's Champions League loss to Real Madrid wasn't fair" |website=bundesliga.com |date=May 2018 }} However, James would go on to win the 2017–18 Bundesliga title with Bayern, credited as a key member behind their title defense for his contribution of 7 goals and 11 assists in 23 Bundesliga appearances.{{cite web |title=James |url=https://www.kicker.de/james/spieler/la-liga/2024-25/rayo-vallecano |website=Kicker |publisher=kicker |access-date=20 November 2018}}

On 15 September 2018, James scored his opening goal of the season in a 3–1 victory over Bayer Leverkusen.{{cite web|url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/bayern-munich-bayer-leverkusen-live-blog-james-rodiguez-lewandowski-muller-512150.jsp|title=Arjen Robben and James Rodriguez on target as Bayern Munich stroll to victory against Bayer Leverkusen|publisher=Bundesliga|access-date=25 September 2018}} On 17 March 2019, he scored three goals in a 6–0 league win over Mainz, his first hat-trick since 2011, with Porto.{{cite news|url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/bayern-munich-mainz-live-line-ups-stats-thomas-muller-james-rodriguez-hummels-3035|title=James Rodriguez hat-trick and maiden Alphonso Davies goal send Bayern Munich top after crushing Mainz win|publisher=Bundesliga|date=17 March 2019|access-date=18 March 2019}} On 18 May, James won his second Bundesliga title as Bayern finished two points above Dortmund with 78 points. A week later, James won his first DFB-Pokal as Bayern defeated RB Leipzig 3–0 in the 2019 DFB-Pokal Final. James did not appear in the match as he was out injured.{{cite web | url = https://www.bundesliga.com/en/bundesliga/news/rb-leipzig-bayern-munich-live-dfb-cup-final-james-rodriguez-lewandowski-neuer-4678 | title = Robert Lewandowski hits brace as Bayern Munich beat RB Leipzig in DFB Cup final to seal the double | publisher = bundesliga.com | access-date = 26 May 2019}} James appeared in 28 matches and scored seven goals in all competitions. On 5 June, it was announced that Bayern Munich would not pick up the buy option and he would return to Real Madrid.{{cite news|url=https://fcbayern.com/en/news/2019/06/james-rodriguez-to-leave-fc-bayern|title=James Rodriguez leaves FC Bayern|publisher=fcbayern.com|date=5 June 2019|access-date=5 June 2019}}

After his return to Madrid, James made eight appearances during the league season, as Real Madrid won the 2019–20 La Liga.{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2020/07/17/5f10db2146163f3c2c8b45d7.html|title=Real Madrid win the longest LaLiga Santander season|date=17 July 2020|access-date=17 July 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain}}

On 7 September 2020, James joined {{English football updater|Everton}} club Everton on a free transfer and signed a two-year deal, with a club option for a third season.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53992937 |title= James Rodriguez: Everton sign Colombia attacking midfielder from Real Madrid |website=BBC Sport |date=7 September 2020 }}{{cite web|date=7 September 2020|title=Everton Complete Signing Of James Rodriguez|url=https://www.evertonfc.com/news/1814775/everton-complete-signing-of-james-rodriguez|access-date=7 September 2020|publisher=Everton F.C.}} The deal once again reunited him with manager Carlo Ancelotti.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/53998282 |title=Everton sign James Rodriguez: Can Carlo Ancelotti bring best out of Colombian? |website=BBC Sport |date=7 September 2020 }} He made his debut later that month in a 1–0 away win against Tottenham Hotspur in their first game of the 2020–21 Premier League season.{{Cite news|title=Tottenham Hotspur 0–1 Everton: Calvert-Lewin earns Everton win at Spurs|work=BBC Sport|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54045208|access-date=13 September 2020}} The following week he scored his first goal for Everton on his home debut, a 5–2 league win against West Bromwich Albion.{{cite web |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54127844 |title=Everton 5–2 West Bromwich Albion: Dominic Calvert-Lewin scores hat-trick in big win |website=BBC Sport |date=19 September 2020 }} James scored two goals and provided an assist for his international teammate Yerry Mina in a 4–2 victory at Goodison Park against Brighton & Hove Albion on 3 October 2020.{{cite web |title=Everton 4–2 Brighton: Calvert-Lewin scores again as Everton go top with win over Brighton |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/54305845 |access-date=3 October 2020 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=3 October 2020}} James added to his goal tally against Manchester United in a 3–3 draw at Old Trafford on 6 February 2021.{{cite web |title=Manchester United 3–3 Everton: Dominic Calvert-Lewin scores late goal to deny hosts |url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/55867139 |access-date=6 February 2021 |publisher=BBC Sport |date=6 February 2021}}

On 22 September 2021, James joined Al-Rayyan for an undisclosed fee.{{cite web |title=Bienvenido Welcome مرحبًا @jamesdrodriguez |url=https://twitter.com/AlrayyanSC/status/1440699341287550985 |access-date=22 September 2021 |publisher=Al-Rayyan SC |date=22 September 2021}}{{Cite web|date=2021-09-22|title=صفقة مدوية.. الريان القطري يعلن التعاقد مع خاميس رودريغيز|url=https://arabic.cnn.com/sport/article/2021/09/22/alrayyan-james-rodrigues-deal|access-date=2021-12-07|website=CNN Arabic|language=ar}}

On 17 October 2021, Rodriguez made his debut for Al-Rayyan, in a 3–0 loss against Al-Duhail.{{cite web|url=https://www.besoccer.com/new/james-fan-club-in-qatar-for-his-al-rayyan-debut-1056665|title=James fan club in Qatar for his Al Rayyan debut!|website=besoccer.com|date=17 October 2021|access-date=18 October 2021}} He scored his first goal for the team against Al-Sailiya on 26 October 2021.{{cite tweet|user=alkass_digital|number=1453028532343480322|title=🏆⚽️QNB STARS LEAGUE 2021-22 ⚽️GOAL 74' Al Rayyan SC 3-0 Al Sailiya SC Scorer: James Rodríguez|date=26 October 2021}}

On 15 September 2022, Al-Rayyan and the player parted ways.{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/AlrayyanSC/status/1570387375800422401|title=Al Rayyan terminates the contract of Colombian professional James Rodriguez |date=15 September 2022|access-date=15 September 2022}}

On 15 September 2022, James Rodríguez joined Greek Super League champions Olympiacos on a free transfer.{{cite web|url=https://www.olympiacos.org/en/2022/09/15/james-rodriguez-joins-olympiacos/ |title=James Rodriguez joins Olympiacos!|date=15 September 2022|access-date=15 September 2022}} Upon arrival, Rodríguez was handed the number 10 jersey, previously worn by Rony Lopes who had departed to play on loan for Ligue 1 side Troyes.{{Cite web |last=Olé |first=Diario Deportivo |date=2022-09-15 |title=James Rodríguez fue presentado en Olympiakos: usará la 10 |url=https://www.ole.com.ar/ecuador/internacional/james-rodriguez-qatar-europa-olympiacos_0_Ll9AcQ26UL.html |access-date=2023-01-20 |website=Olé |language=es}} He made his league debut on 18 September as a starter against Aris Thessaloniki, a match in which his team lost 2–1 despite being up a goal for the majority of the match.{{Cite web |date=2022-09-18 |title=Debut amargo de James con Olympiacos; peor no pudo ser |url=https://www.antena2.com/futbol/debut-amargo-de-james-con-olympiacos-peor-no-pudo-ser |access-date=2023-01-20 |website=Antena 2 |language=es}}

On 13 April 2023, James' contract with Olympiacos was terminated by mutual consent.{{cite web|url=https://theathletic.com/4408059/2023/04/13/james-rodriguez-olympiacos-contract/|title=James Rodriguez: Former Real Madrid and Everton player has contract terminated by Olympiacos|website=The Athletic|date=13 April 2023|access-date=13 April 2023|first=Kate|last=Burlaga|language=en}}

On 29 July 2023, James joined São Paulo, signing a two-year contract.{{cite web|url=http://www.saopaulofc.net/noticias/noticias/spfc-/2023/7/29/tricolor-acerta-a-contratacao-de-james-rodriguez|title=Tricolor acerta a contratação de James Rodríguez|website=São Paulo FC|date=29 July 2023|access-date=29 July 2023|first=|last=|language=pt|archive-date=29 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230729195831/http://www.saopaulofc.net/noticias/noticias/spfc-/2023/7/29/tricolor-acerta-a-contratacao-de-james-rodriguez|url-status=dead}} James made his debut for the club in a 1-1 draw to Flamengo on 13 August. Despite making mostly substitute appearances as he was coming from four months off the pitch, he was getting regular playing time under manager Dorival Júnior in the 2023 season, making 14 appearances out of a possible 25 until an injury suffered in training left him out for the final three matches of the season.{{Cite web |date=2023-11-29 |title=James Rodríguez y una nueva lesión, en São Paulo ya hay molestia por sus bajas ¿Cuánto ha jugado? |url=https://us.marca.com/soccer/2023/11/29/6567563b268e3e24658b4592.html |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=MARCA |language=es-us}}{{Cite web |last=Zabaleta |first=Camilo |date=2023-12-06 |title=James Rodríguez no se recuperó y será baja en el último partido del São Paulo en 2023: esto se sabe de su lesión |url=https://www.infobae.com/colombia/2023/12/06/james-rodriguez-no-se-recupero-y-sera-baja-en-el-ultimo-partido-del-sao-paulo-en-2023-esto-se-sabe-de-su-lesion/ |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=infobae |language=es-ES}}

However, with the arrival of Luis Zubeldía, James began struggling for playing time, playing less than 200 minutes over 8 appearances in the first half of the 2024 season, with coach Zubeldia preferring other players in his position instead.{{Cite web |date=2024-05-06 |title=James vive en São Paulo lo mismo que sufría con Zidane en Real Madrid |url=https://www.marca.com/co/2024/05/06/6638cb76ca47412a228b4589.html |access-date=2025-01-08 |website=MARCA |language=es-co}} In July 2024 his contract with São Paulo was terminated by mutual consent, with James making 22 appearances and scoring two goals in his spell with the Brazilian club.{{Cite web |date=2024-07-21 |title=James Rodriguez rips up Sao Paulo contract and 'would love' return to Europe after starring for Colombia at Copa America |url=https://www.goal.com/en-us/lists/james-rodriguez-sao-paulo-contract-return-to-europe-colombia-copa-america/blt62525743c020e649 |access-date=2025-01-06 |website=Goal.com |language=en-US}}

James joined La Liga club Rayo Vallecano in August 2024 as a free agent.{{Cite web |date=2024-08-26 |title=James Rodriguez: Ex-Real Madrid and Everton playmaker joins Rayo Vallecano |url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/football/articles/c6283ldk17do |access-date=2025-01-06 |website=BBC Sport |language=en-GB}} He made a total of seven appearances in the 2024–25 season for a total of 205 minutes and provided an assist in Rayo's Copa del Rey victory over Unionistas. James' contract with Rayo was terminated by mutual consent in January 2025 after only four months and seven appearances with the club.{{Cite news |last1=Rai |first1=Guillermo |last2=Cortegana |first2=Mario |title=James Rodriguez to leave Rayo Vallecano just four months after joining |url=https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6041541/2025/01/06/james-rodriguez-transfer-rayo-vallecano/ |access-date=2025-01-06 |work=The New York Times |date=6 January 2025 |language=en-US |issn=0362-4331}}

Following his departure from Rayo, there was speculation about a transfer to Junior,{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-01-02 |title='Bombazo' con James Rodríguez para 2025: ¿Sale del Rayo Vallecano al Junior de Barranquilla? |url=https://www.marca.com/co/2025/01/02/6776af66268e3eaa1b8b458e.html |access-date=2025-01-15 |website=MARCA |language=es-co}} with club president Fuad Char saying that he would be paid one of the biggest salaries in Colombian football.{{Cite web |last= |date=2025-01-07 |title=James rescinde con Rayo Vallecano y destaparon las verdades: "Es posible que venga a definir su contrato" |url=https://www.marca.com/co/2025/01/07/677d4a4b268e3eb63e8b4596.html |access-date=2025-01-15 |website=MARCA |language=es-co}} On 13 January 2025, Liga MX club León announced James' signing following his departure from Rayo.{{Cite news |date=2025-01-13 |title=¡Oficial! James Rodríguez es nuevo refuerzo de León para el Clausura 2025 |url=https://www.record.com.mx/futbol-liga-mx-leon/oficial-james-rodriguez-es-nuevo-refuerzo-de-leon-para-el-clausura-2025 |access-date=2025-01-13 |website=Récord |language=es-us}}{{Cite tweet |number=1878926086303551650 |user=clubleonfc |title=DECIMUS "X" @jamesdrodriguez 🦁 |author=((Club León)) |date=13 January 2025}}

James was part of the Colombia U-17 team that finished runners-up in the 2007 South American Under-17 Championships, where he scored three goals. He also helped Colombia advance to the knockout stages during the 2007 FIFA U-17 World Cup, where they eventually lost to the winners of the tournament Nigeria.{{Cite web|date=11 August 2014|title=Rodriguez: It's a Dream come True|url=https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/2014brazil/news/rodriguez-it-s-a-dream-come-true-2418837|access-date=|website=FIFA.com|language=en|archive-date=18 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718201256/https://www.fifa.com/tournaments/mens/worldcup/2014brazil/news/rodriguez-it-s-a-dream-come-true-2418837|url-status=dead}}

He was also part of the Colombia under-20 squad in three youth tournaments during 2011: the Toulon Tournament, the South American U-20 Championship and the U-20 World Cup that was held in his homeland Colombia.

James scored two goals and provided three assists during the 2011 Toulon Tournament. This show led him to being voted as the MVP of the tournament where Colombia won the final by defeating France in a penalty shootout. James scored one of the penalties in the shootout.{{Cite web|title=The Toulon Tournament's most memorable moments : James Rodriguez fired Colombia to the title|url=https://www.festival-foot-espoirs.com/festival/detail_actualite.php?id=2939|access-date=18 July 2021|website=www.festival-foot-espoirs.com}}

During the 2011 South American U-20 Championship, he provided three assists. During the 2011 U-20 World Cup, he was named captain of the U20 squad due to his impressive leadership and talent. By scoring three goals and providing three assists in the tournament, he gained international attention as a promising star, especially during his performance in the 4–1 victory against France where he scored a penalty and provided an assist.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2011-07-30 |title=Colombia 4-1 Francia: ¡Esta es mi casa, mi fiesta y mi Mundial! |url=https://www.noticiascaracol.com/golcaracol/colombia-4-1-francia-esta-es-mi-casa-mi-fiesta-y-mi-mundial |access-date=2024-06-05 |website=Gol Caracol |language=es}}

File:James Rodríguez 1.jpg during a World Cup qualification match against Uruguay in September 2013]]

On 29 September 2011, James received his first call-up to the Colombia senior side for a match against Bolivia on 11 October 2011.{{cite web|url=http://www.colfutbol.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2306%3Aconvocatoria-seleccion-colombia-mayores-para-juego-ante-bolivia&catid=19%3Aseleccion-mayores&Itemid=9|title=Convocatoria Selección Mayores para juego ante Bolivia|date=29 September 2011|access-date=30 September 2011|publisher=Colombia national football team|language=es|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002215423/http://www.colfutbol.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=2306%3Aconvocatoria-seleccion-colombia-mayores-para-juego-ante-bolivia&catid=19%3Aseleccion-mayores&Itemid=9|archive-date=2 October 2011}} He was selected as the man of match due to his incredible performance including the initiation of the goal scored in the last minute by his former Porto teammate Radamel Falcao which gave Colombia a 2–1 win in La Paz.{{Cite web|date=13 October 2011|title=Porto's James Rodriguez over the moon after excellent Colombia debut|url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/1701/colombia/2011/10/13/2709666/portos-james-rodriguez-over-the-moon-after-excellent|access-date=18 July 2021|website=Goal.com}} Under new manager José Pékerman, he played a crucial part in setting up both goals in a 2–0 friendly victory over Mexico. He scored his first goal for Colombia against Peru, and Colombia went on to win 1–0 in Lima in Pekerman's first competitive match.{{Cite web |last= |first= |date=2012-06-04 |title=Colombia beat Peru 1-0 in World Cup qualifying |url=https://colombiareports.com/colombia-beats-peru-1-0-in-world-cup-qualifying/ |access-date=2024-06-05 |website=Colombia Reports |language=en}}

James assisted two goals in a row from 1–0 to 3–0 In the World Cup qualifying match against Uruguay that eventually ended 4–0. James scored a stunning volley from a 30-yard free kick against Chile, leveling the game to an eventual 3–1 away victory boosting Colombia to the second place in the qualifying stages. In the match against Paraguay, James set up the plays leading towards both goals in a 2–0 victory. In Colombia's last international friendly of the year, James assisted the sole goal allowing Colombia to tie with 2014 World Cup hosts Brazil 1–1.

James played his first match of 2013 in the second half of the CONMEBOL qualifiers against Bolivia, where he gave a man of the match performance in a 5-0 victory. He set up the second goal thanks to a free kick that he took.{{cite web | url = http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/fcporto/james-rodriguez-colombia-radamel-falcao-jackson-martinez-bolivia-futebol/1432240-1304.html | title = James ajuda Colômbia a esmagar a Bolívia (5–0) | language = pt | website = Maisfutebol.iol.pt | date = 22 March 2013 | access-date = 9 April 2018 | archive-date = 27 January 2016 | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20160127074133/http://www.maisfutebol.iol.pt/fcporto/james-rodriguez-colombia-radamel-falcao-jackson-martinez-bolivia-futebol/1432240-1304.html | url-status = dead }}

Playing against South American leaders Argentina, James suffered an injury in the 30th minute forcing him to be substituted. While the injury was not serious, James was rested and therefore missed the game against Peru days later. James made a good comeback when he scored the winning goal in a 1–0 victory over Ecuador during the final stages of the world cup qualifiers. In a tough match against Chile, James drew both penalties that equalized Colombia from a 1–3 to a 3–3. This drew allowed Colombia to return to the World Cup for the first time in 16 years. Days later, James assisted the first goal with a free-kick while setting up the second in a 2–1 away victory over Paraguay.

James continued his play-making form by assisting the first goal and setting up the second against Belgium in a 2–0 victory. He was later voted man of the match.{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/1851089-belgium-vs-colombia-score-grades-and-post-match-reaction |title=Belgium vs. Colombia: Score, Grades and Post-Match Reaction |publisher=Bleacher Report |access-date=15 November 2013}} A few days later, James was praised once more as the man of the match in a 0–0 draw against the Netherlands.{{cite web|title=International friendlies – Netherlands play out draw with Colombia – Yahoo Eurosport UK|url=http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/international-friendlies-matchpack-netherlands-v-colombia-172441834--sow.html|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140111230543/http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/international-friendlies-matchpack-netherlands-v-colombia-172441834--sow.html|archive-date=11 January 2014|access-date=11 January 2014|website=Yahoo Sport}} James started in Colombia's opening match of 2014 and scored a penalty against Tunisia in a 1–1 draw at Estadio Cornellá-El Prat on 5 March 2014.{{Cite web|date=5 March 2014|title=World Cup-bound Colombia draws with Tunisia 1-1|url=http://sg.news.yahoo.com/world-cup-bound-colombia-draws-tunisia-1-1-210056404.html|access-date=18 July 2021|website=Yahoo News|language=en-SG}} In the last friendly before the World Cup, James scored yet another penalty against Jordan in a 3–0 victory.

{{Quote box|width=30%|align=right|quote="For me, special talents are those who do things that are completely out of the ordinary. Diego Maradona, Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, James Rodriguez – they do things because they have certain gifts that make them special. I believe he's the best player at the World Cup and I don't think I'm exaggerating; he's a young player. We tried to limit his influence, but he kept going and made his presence felt. Hopefully he'll continue to progress, because he's very young. Football needs players with these characteristics."|source=Óscar Tabárez on James.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=6/news=tabarez-james-is-the-best-player-at-the-world-cup-2389273.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140702165655/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=6/news=tabarez-james-is-the-best-player-at-the-world-cup-2389273.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=2 July 2014|title=James Rodríguez is the best player in the world cup|publisher=FIFA|date=29 June 2014|access-date=29 June 2014}}}}

On 2 June 2014, James was named in Colombia's 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup and assigned the number 10 shirt.{{cite news|url=http://msn.foxsports.com/soccer/story/recovering-falcao-left-off-colombia-s-final-23-player-world-cup-roster-060214|title=Recovering Falcao left off Colombia's final 23-player World Cup roster|date=2 June 2014|access-date=16 June 2014|work=Fox Sports}} In the team's opening match of the tournament, James set up the first two goals, scored a last-minute goal with a low shot to seal a 3–0 victory over Greece and was named man of the match by FIFA.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186471/index.html#nosticky|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140605221501/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186471/index.html#nosticky|url-status=dead|archive-date=5 June 2014|title=Colombia 3–0 Greece|date=14 June 2014|access-date=16 June 2014|publisher=FIFA}} In the second match, James continued his form by scoring with a header and setting up a second goal for Juan Fernando Quintero in a 2–1 victory over Ivory Coast and was once again elected as man of the match.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186468/index.html#nosticky |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140608001423/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186468/index.html#nosticky |url-status=dead |archive-date=8 June 2014 |title=2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil: Colombia-Côte d'Ivoire – Overview |publisher=FIFA |date=19 June 2014 |access-date=24 June 2014}} In the final group stage match against Japan, James came on as a second-half substitute and assisted two Jackson Martínez goals before scoring the final goal in a 4–1 victory.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186457/match-report.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140624221311/http://www.fifa.com//worldcup/matches/round=255931/match=300186457/match-report.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=24 June 2014 |title=2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil: Japan-Colombia |publisher=FIFA |access-date=30 June 2014}}{{cite news|url=http://www.irishtimes.com/sport/soccer/international/james-rodriguez-and-colombia-continue-to-excite-1.1844145 |title=James Rodriguez and Colombia continue to excite |newspaper=The Irish Times |date=24 June 2014 |access-date=25 June 2014}} At the end of the group stage, James was ranked as the best performing player at the tournament by FIFA.{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=6/news=rodriguez-hits-front-as-perisic-goes-home-in-second-2387611.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140630003331/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=6/news=rodriguez-hits-front-as-perisic-goes-home-in-second-2387611.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 June 2014|title=Rodriguez hits front as Perisic goes home in second|date=27 June 2014|access-date=29 June 2014|publisher=FIFA}}

File:1 James Rodríguez.jpg in the Round of 16 match]]

On 28 June, James scored both goals to defeat Uruguay 2–0 at the Maracanã in the round of 16, taking Colombia to its first ever World Cup quarter-finals. These goals made him the first player to score in all of his team's opening matches since Ronaldo and Rivaldo in 2002.{{cite news|first=Fraser|last=Masefield|url=https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/world-cup-colombia-uruguay-matchpack-will-suarez-prove-072519200--sow.html|title=World Cup – Genius Rodriguez fires Colombia past toothless Uruguay|work=Eurosport|date=28 June 2014|access-date=29 June 2014|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140714183312/https://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/news/world-cup-colombia-uruguay-matchpack-will-suarez-prove-072519200--sow.html|archive-date=14 July 2014}} His volleyed opening goal was described as "one of the greatest goals the World Cup has ever seen" by opposing manager Óscar Tabárez, who also called James "the best player in the World Cup".{{cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2014/jun/28/colombia-uruguay-world-cup-2014-last-16-match-report|title=Colombia's James Rodríguez sizzles to end Uruguay World Cup saga|date=29 June 2014|access-date=30 June 2014|work=The Guardian}} Because of his performance against the Uruguayans, James was named by FIFA as man of the match for the third time in four matches.{{cite news|title=Colombia 2–0 Uruguay|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255951/match=300186491/|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140630075700/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/matches/round=255951/match=300186491/|url-status=dead|archive-date=30 June 2014|publisher=FIFA|date=28 June 2014|access-date=29 June 2014}} The volley was later voted as the best goal in the tournament by more than four million people on FIFA's website{{cite news|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=7/news=rodriguez-volley-named-goal-of-the-tournament-2406962.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140721122511/http://www.fifa.com//worldcup/news/y=2014/m=7/news=rodriguez-volley-named-goal-of-the-tournament-2406962.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=21 July 2014|title=Rodriguez volley named Goal of the Tournament|date=21 July 2014|access-date=21 July 2014|publisher=FIFA}} and won the FIFA Puskás Award for the best goal of the year.{{cite news|title=James Rodriguez|url=https://www.fifa.com/ballon-dor/puskas-award/video=2463790/index.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141113200139/http://www.fifa.com/ballon-dor/puskas-award/video=2463790/index.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=13 November 2014|access-date=14 November 2014|publisher=FIFA|date=12 November 2014}}{{cite news|title=James Rodriguez beats Stephanie Roche for Puskas award|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/30786318|access-date=12 January 2015|work=BBC Sport|date=12 January 2015}} In the quarter-final against Brazil, he scored his sixth goal of the tournament, a penalty in Colombia's 2–1 defeat.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/live/football/27463709|title=Brazil 2–1 Colombia|access-date=5 July 2014|date=4 July 2014|publisher=BBC}}

File:James Rodriguez.jpg at the 1970 edition.]]

A tearful James was consoled by Brazil's David Luiz and stated, "He (David) told me I was a good player. The truth is that having so many superstars hug me did make me happy. We have to raise our heads now and thank Colombia for their support. We are sad because we wanted to keep going and set new records. We gave everything to reach the semi-final, but we have to be proud because we played a great side. I'm crying because we gave everything. We're sad but we also have to feel proud because we left our skin out there."{{cite web|url=http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2119767-james-rodriguez-consoled-by-david-luiz-as-brazil-eliminate-colombia-at-world-cup |title=James Rodriguez Consoled by David Luiz as Brazil Eliminate Colombia at World Cup |publisher=Bleacher Report |date=4 July 2014 |access-date=13 July 2014}}{{cite web|url=http://www.smh.com.au/fifa-world-cup-2014/world-cup-news-2014/tearful-james-rodriguez-hits-out-at-referee-after-colombia-exit-world-cup-20140705-zsx8x.html |title=Tearful James Rodriguez hits out at referee after Colombia exit World Cup |work=The Sydney Morning Herald |date=5 July 2014 |access-date=13 July 2014}} Luiz and Rodríguez also exchanged jerseys. James received a standing ovation from the home crowd, ending his first World Cup campaign with six goals and two assists in five matches.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/y=2014/m=7/news=departing-rodriguez-soaks-up-adulation-2399967.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140705170825/http://www.fifa.com//worldcup/news/y=2014/m=7/news=departing-rodriguez-soaks-up-adulation-2399967.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=5 July 2014 |title=Departing Rodriguez soaks up adulation |publisher=FIFA |access-date=13 July 2014}} On 11 July, he was named on the 10-man shortlist for FIFA's Golden Ball award for the tournament's best player.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28274011|title=World Cup 2014: Fifa announces Golden Ball shortlist|date=11 July 2014|access-date=12 July 2014|publisher=BBC}} He then won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top goalscorer despite being eliminated in the quarter finals. Due to his performances, he was named in the World Cup All Star XI and was also listed in the Cup's star XI by Castrol's index rating system in FIFA's website. Argentina legend Diego Maradona argued that James, rather than Lionel Messi, should have won the tournament's Golden Ball award.{{cite news|url=https://www.bbc.com/sport/0/football/28294339|title=World Cup 2014: Lionel Messi Golden Ball surprised Sepp Blatter|date=14 July 2014|access-date=16 October 2017|work=BBC Sport|quote=Argentina legend Diego Maradona also felt Messi was a surprise choice, claiming Colombia's James Rodriguez performed better in Brazil.}}

File:James Rodríguez 2016.jpg, June 2016]]

James was called up to represent Colombia at the 2015 Copa América in Chile,{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/blog/2015/jun/26/james-rodriguez-copa-america-colombia-argentina|title=James Rodríguez irked at Copa América, a year on from World Cup wonder goal|work=The Guardian|author1=Jonathan Wilson|date=26 June 2015|access-date=6 June 2016}} where his team was eliminated 5–4 on penalties by eventual finalists Argentina on 27 June, following a 0–0 draw.{{cite web|url=https://www.theguardian.com/football/2015/jun/27/copa-america-argentina-beat-colombia-in-shootout-after-tense-stalemate|title=Copa América: Argentina beat Colombia in penalty shootout after stalemate|work=The Guardian|date=27 June 2015|access-date=6 June 2016}}

The following summer, James joined Colombia's squad for the Copa América Centenario and was named the team's captain.{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.us/colombia/story/2885375/colombia-can-go-far-at-copa-america-centenario-jose-pekerman|title=Colombia 'can go far' at Copa America Centenario – Jose Pekerman|publisher=ESPN FC|author1=Doug McIntyre|date=2 June 2016|access-date=7 June 2016}} On 3 June, he started in Colombia's opening 2–0 win against tournament hosts the United States, scoring his team's second goal from the penalty spot although he was forced off early due to an injury.{{cite web|url=http://www.mlssoccer.com/post/2016/06/03/usa-0-colombia-2-copa-america-centenario-match-recap|title=USA 0, Colombia 2 – Copa America Centenario Match Recap|publisher=MLSSoccer.com|author1=Alicia Rodriguez|date=3 June 2016|access-date=6 June 2016}} It was initially feared that he would be unable to feature in his nation's second group match against Paraguay,{{cite web|url=http://www.espnfc.us/colombia/story/2887593/james-rodriguez-to-miss-colombias-match-against-paraguay-with-injury|title=James Rodriguez to miss Colombia's match against Paraguay with injury|publisher=ESPN FC|date=6 June 2016|access-date=8 June 2016}} but he recovered in time to start the match, setting up Colombia's first goal, and later scoring one himself in a 2–1 win which sealed his team a place in the quarter-finals of the tournament.{{cite web|url=https://www.beinsports.com/au/football/news/james-fires-colombia-into-quarter-final/274643|title=James fires Colombia into quarter final|publisher=beIN Sports|date=8 June 2016|access-date=8 June 2016}}

Colombia would then lose in the semi-finals against eventual and defending champions Chile, before securing a third-place victory against the host nation for Colombia's best result since 2001.{{Cite news|url=https://www.nytimes.com/2016/06/26/sports/soccer/copa-america-united-states-colombia.html|title=Colombia Beats U.S. for Third Place in Copa América|date=25 June 2016|work=The New York Times|access-date=2 June 2018 |issn=0362-4331}}

James made his first direct contribution towards qualification, scoring a goal in a heated duel against Copa America champions Chile, securing a 1–1 away draw.{{cite news | url = https://elcomercio.pe/deporte-total/futbol-mundial/chile-igualo-1-1-colombia-eliminatorias-rusia-2018-241315-noticia/ | title = Chile igualó 1–1 con Colombia por las Eliminatorias Rusia 2018 | language = es | website = El Comercio | date = 13 November 2015 | access-date = 13 January 2020}} In early 2016, he provided both a goal and assist in a difficult away match against Bolivia resulting in a 2–3 victory.{{Cite web|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/bolivia-vs-colombia/349917|title=World Cup (Sky Sports)|website=SkySports |access-date=2 June 2018}} Days later, he assisted another goal in a 3–1 home victory against Ecuador.{{Cite news|url=http://www.skysports.com/football/colombia-vs-ecuador/349923|title=Colombia 3–1 Ecuador: Carlos Bacca scores twice in win|work=Sky Sports|access-date=2 June 2018}} In early August, he contributed both a goal and an assist in Colombia's 2–0 victory against Venezuela.{{cite news | url = https://elcomercio.pe/deporte-total/futbol-mundial/colombia-vencio-2-0-venezuela-eliminatorias-rusia-2018-253319-noticia/ | title = Colombia venció 2–0 a Venezuela por Eliminatorias Rusia 2018 | language = es | website = El Comercio | date = 2 September 2016 | access-date = 13 January 2020}}

Starting off 2017, James scored a late dramatic goal against a defensive Bolivia after missing an earlier penalty. The 1–0 home victory allowed Colombia to move to 4th place within the qualification group.{{citation needed|date=March 2018}} Days later, James would score and provide a goal in an impressive 0–2 victory in Ecuador.{{cite web | url = https://colombia.as.com/colombia/2017/03/28/futbol/1490702810_818901.html | title = Ecuador 0–2 Colombia: Goles, resumen y resultado | website = as.com | date = 29 March 2017 | access-date = 25 March 2018 | language = es}} For his first friendly of the year, James assisted Radamel Falcao's goal from the corner against European giants Spain. The game would end 2–2.{{cite web | url = https://www.theguardian.com/football/match-redirect/3996941 | title = Spain 2 – 2 Colombia | website = The Guardian | access-date = 25 March 2018}} Days later against Cameroon, James would both provide and score a goal in a dominating 4–0 victory.{{cite web | url = http://www.espn.com/soccer/report?gameId=477648 | title = James Rodriguez help Colombia rout Cameroon in Madrid | publisher = ESPN | date = 13 June 2017 | access-date = 25 March 2018}} For the last qualification match of the 2018 World Cup, James would score a crucial away goal against South American rival Peru, resulting in a 1–1 draw and granting Colombia the last automatic qualification spot at fourth place.{{citation needed|date=March 2018}} James' last contribution of 2017 for Colombia would be an assist against South Korea, which would end 2–1.{{cite web | url = http://www.skysports.com/football/korea-rep-vs-colombia/385588 | title = Korea Rep 2 – 1 Colombia | website = Sky Sports | date = 25 March 2018 | access-date = 25 March 2018}}

Colombia's World Cup preparations in 2018 began against World Cup favorites France, where James provided two assists towards a comeback of a 2–0 score to a 2–3 victory. This marked the first victory in Colombia's history over France.{{cite web | url = http://kwese.espn.com/football/report?gameId=499515 | title = Colombia fight back to win five-goal thriller against below-par France | publisher = ESPN | date = 23 March 2018 | access-date = 25 March 2018}}

On 4 June 2018, James was selected in Colombia's 23-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en-us/news/falcao-and-james-join-injured-duo-in-colombias-world-cup/wnbuppcvblfj1humzah4jkfbq|title=Falcao and James join injured duo in Colombia's World Cup squad|publisher=Goal.com|access-date=25 June 2018}} James did not start in the opening game against Japan after a calf injury during training. He came as a substitute in the 59th minute for Juan Quintero.{{cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/soccer/colombia/story/3533651/colombias-james-rodriguez-not-starting-against-japan-after-calf-injury | title = Colombia's James Rodriguez will not start vs. Japan after calf injury | publisher = ESPN | date = 19 June 2018 | access-date = 13 January 2020}} On 24 June 2018, he provided two assists in a 3–0 victory over Poland and was named as the Man of the Match.{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/news/review-poland--colombia-2967752|title=Colombia's second-half surge sends Poland packing|publisher=FIFA|access-date=25 June 2018}} James had to be substituted in the 30th minute in the final match of the group stage against Senegal due to the injury.{{cite web | url = https://www.espn.com/soccer/colombia/story/3548903/colombias-james-rodriguez-injured-during-senegal-world-cup-game | title = Colombia's James Rodriguez injured, leaving Jose Pekerman 'very worried' | publisher = ESPN | date = 28 June 2018 | access-date = 13 January 2020}} James played in all three matches during the group phase, but was forced to sit out of Colombia's last 16 match against England. Colombia lost 4–3 on penalties against England and were eliminated from the World Cup. James was unable to score in those three matches.{{cite web | url = https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/players/player/269058/ | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20180623170142/https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/players/player/269058/ | url-status = dead | archive-date = 23 June 2018 | title = James Rodriguez | publisher = FIFA | access-date = 13 July 2018}}

On 30 May 2019, James was included in the 23-man final Colombia squad for the 2019 Copa América.{{cite news|url=http://fcf.com.co/index.php/2019/05/30/lista-de-23-jugadores-para-la-copa-america-brasil-2019/|title=Lista de 23 jugadores para la copa américa brasil 2019|publisher=FCF|language=es|date=30 May 2019|access-date=19 October 2019|archive-date=30 May 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190530224417/http://fcf.com.co/index.php/2019/05/30/lista-de-23-jugadores-para-la-copa-america-brasil-2019/|url-status=dead}} In the quarter-finals of the tournament against defending champions Chile on 28 June, following a 0–0 draw after regulation time, James scored in the resulting penalty shoot-out; however, Colombia were defeated 5–4 and were eliminated from the competition.{{cite news |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/sport/football/international/copa-america-2019-results-chile-colombia-alexis-sanchez-goal-man-utd-penalty-shootout-a8980161.html |title=Copa America 2019 results: Alexis Sanchez fires Chile into semi-finals with winning penalty in shootout drama |work=The Independent |date=29 June 2019 |access-date=30 June 2019 }}

File:James Rodriguez 2022.jpg

On 28 May 2021, James was ruled out of the squad for the 2021 Copa América due to his lack of conditioning, i.e. for not having the optimal physical level, as he had recently been recovering from injury.{{cite news|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/copa-america/2021/05/28/60b0fbe6268e3e585d8b4626.html|title=James Rodriguez out of Copa America|website=Marca.com|date=28 May 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://theathletic.com/news/james-rodriguez-injury-colombia-copa-america/9p6Ho53cPYse|title=Colombia leave James Rodriguez out of Copa America squad|website=theAthletic.com|date=28 May 2021}}{{cite news|url=https://www.goal.com/en/news/james-rodriguez-out-world-cup-qualifiers-colombia-injury/1blkkoyv0qazo1ocl7ob4x0ta4|title=James Rodriguez ruled out of Copa America and World Cup qualifiers for Colombia with injury|website=goal.com|date=28 May 2021}}

After Colombia's failure to qualify for the 2022 FIFA World Cup, James admitted that he was uncertain about his future with the team. "I don't know what's coming regarding the next phases, I don't know if I'm going to be there or not," he told Diario Sport. "What I do know is that it breaks my heart to lose, it bothers me not qualifying and this can't happen again."{{Cite web|url=https://www.football-espana.net/2022/03/31/james-rodriguez-hints-that-his-days-with-the-colombian-national-team-may-be-over|title=James Rodriguez hints that his days with the Colombian national team may be over|first=Alan|last=Feehely|date=31 March 2022 | access-date = 1 April 2022 | website = football-espana.net}}

On 15 June 2024, Rodríguez earned his 100th international cap in a 3–0 friendly win over Bolivia.{{cite web |url=https://espndeportes.espn.com/futbol/mundial/nota/_/id/13788542/james-rodriguez-cumplio-100-partidos-seleccion-colombia-tabla-mas-presencias |title=James Rodríguez cumplió 100 partidos con la Selección Colombia ante Bolivia |publisher=ESPN Deportes |language=es |date=15 June 2024 }} On 21 June, he was selected in the 26-man squad for the 2024 Copa América.{{cite web |last=Prieto Pérez |first=Miguel Ángel |url=https://colombia.as.com/futbol/copa-america/plantel-de-la-seleccion-de-colombia-para-la-copa-america-2024-seleccionados-ausencias-n/ |title=Plantel de la selección de Colombia para la Copa América 2024: seleccionados, ausencias... |publisher=as.com |language=es |date=21 June 2024 }} In the quarter-final match against Panama, he scored a penalty and provided two assists in the first half of a 5–0 victory.{{cite web |last=Schneider |first=Jacob |url=https://www.goal.com/en/lists/james-rodriguez-colombia-panama-copa-america/blta85192d474a2ab7e |title=James Rodriguez shines as Colombia pummel Panama in Copa America quarterfinals |publisher=Goal.com |date=7 July 2024 }} In the semi-final clash against Uruguay, he provided the assist from a corner kick for Jefferson Lerma's winner in a 1–0 victory to send his national team to the final.{{cite web |url=https://copaamerica.com/en/news/colombia-uruguay-match-recap-copa-america-2024 |title=Colombia Outlast Uruguay, Punch Ticket To The CONMEBOL Copa América Final |publisher=CONMEBOL |date=11 July 2024 |access-date=11 July 2024 }} This assist was his sixth at the tournament, which allowed James to surpass Messi's record for the most assists in a single edition of Copa América.{{cite web |url=https://copaamerica.com/en/news/james-record-assists-copa-america-colombia-uruguay |title=James makes history by surpassing Messi's record in the CONMEBOL Copa America |publisher=CONMEBOL |date=11 July 2024 |access-date=11 July 2024 }}

Once considered to be among the best young players in the world,{{cite news|url=https://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/10942617/World-Cup-2014-no-ceiling-to-what-Colombian-James-Rodriguez-can-achieve.html|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140703191829/http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup/10942617/World-Cup-2014-no-ceiling-to-what-Colombian-James-Rodriguez-can-achieve.html|url-status=dead|archive-date=3 July 2014|title=World Cup 2014: 'no ceiling to what Colombian James Rodriguez can achieve'|date=3 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014|work=The Telegraph}} James is a versatile footballer who can play in several positions across the midfield or front-line, having played as a playmaker, winger, and central midfielder for both club and country,{{cite web|url=https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/news/newsid=1683480/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002174420/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/preliminaries/news/newsid=1683480/ |url-status=dead |archive-date=2 October 2013 |title=Rodriguez: I've got a lot to learn |publisher=FIFA |date=20 August 2012 |access-date=15 November 2013}} although he has stated in interviews that his preferred role is as an attacking midfielder behind the strikers.{{cite web|url=http://www.marca.com/en/2014/11/13/en/football/real_madrid/1415903429.html|title=Real Madrid: James: "I'm more comfortable in my position for Colombia" – MARCA.com (English version)| website = Marca|date=13 November 2014|location=Spain}} Praised for his pace, technical skills, vision, and his ability to create chances for teammates as an advanced playmaker,{{cite web|url=http://www.marca.com/en/2015/08/31/en/football/real_madrid/1441010072.html|title=James, Real's new big gun|work=Marca|author1=J. L. Calderón|date=31 August 2015|access-date=22 April 2016}}{{cite web|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/football/squad/james-rodriguez|title=I want to make history with Real Madrid|work=Real Madrid C.F. - Web Oficial |publisher=Real Madrid C.F.|access-date=15 August 2016}} James' performances as a classic number 10 have led to comparisons with the famous Colombian footballer Carlos Valderrama;{{cite web | url = https://www.thestatesman.com/sports/james-rodriguez-next-superstar-colombian-football-carlos-valderrama-1502491346.html | title = James Rodriguez next superstar of Colombian football: Carlos Valderrama | website = The Statesman | date = 12 September 2017 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} Valderrama himself declared James as his "successor".{{cite news|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0217-0e8b340c793c-b61e2d76c439-1000--who-is-james-rodriguez/|title=Who is James Rodríguez?|date=4 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014|publisher=UEFA}}{{cite news|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDASVFqr9tk |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211215/CDASVFqr9tk |archive-date=2021-12-15 |url-status=live|title=James Rodriguez and his Adidas Deal|date=4 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014|publisher=beIN Sports (published by YouTube)}}{{cbignore}}

{{Quote box|width=30%|align=right|quote="He has the ability to see the hole where others cannot find it. This has already been shown in several games this season. His vision of the game is reminiscent of what Michael Laudrup had and the great beneficiaries are his teammates."|source=Marca writer Justin Sherman regarding James' first season with Bayern.{{Cite web|url=http://www.marca.com/en/football/international-football/2018/02/15/5a85e148468aebbb7d8b4589.html|title=Football - Bundesliga: The 10 secrets to James Rodriguez's success|date=15 February 2018}}}}

Although naturally left-footed, James has shown ambidexterity in his dribbling and style of play.{{cite news|url=https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/world-cup-2014/arsene-wenger-qa-arsenal-boss-3846900|title=Arsene Wenger Q&A: Arsenal boss on James Rodriguez, World Cup final and new foe Louis van Gaal|date=12 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014|work=Mirror}}{{cite news|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6A-FUpEjDw |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141105084713/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R6A-FUpEjDw |archive-date=2014-11-05 |url-status=dead|title=David Beckham on James Rodríguez – The Dugout Live in Rio – adidas Football|date=12 July 2014|access-date=22 July 2014|publisher=adidas Football (published by Youtube)}} His goal scoring abilities were a highlight of the 2014 FIFA World Cup, where he managed to claim the Golden Boot despite Colombia's elimination in the quarter finals following a 2–1 loss to Brazil. He is also an accurate free kick taker, and a goal threat from anywhere on the pitch. This has made James recognized for his unpredictability as noted by Marca writer Justin Sherman: "One of the differences that James has with other players is that, apart from being very good outside the area, he is also good inside. He has the qualities of a No. 9 and is capable of finishing with a shot from the head or with either foot with great effectiveness."

In 2015, Forbes estimated that James' annual income was $29 million.{{cite web |url=https://www.forbes.com/profile/james-rodriguez/ |title=James Rodríguez |work=Forbes |year=2015 |access-date=28 April 2016 }}

James married volleyball player Daniela Ospina, sister of Colombian goalkeeper David Ospina, in 2011. They met while James was playing at Banfield. The two have a daughter named Salome, born on 29 May 2013.{{cite web| title = Colombia's James Rodriguez, a proud father and the man Brazil most fears at World Cup | url = https://www.foxnews.com/sports/colombias-james-rodriguez-a-proud-father-and-the-man-brazil-most-fears-at-world-cup | website = Fox News Sports | date = 3 July 2014 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} On 27 July 2017, it was announced that the couple was in the process of divorcing.{{cite web|url=http://www.goal.com/en/news/james-rod/1mugl77wy9d541exdz6rcd0eqt|title=James Rodriguez and wife Daniela Ospina announce separation |website=Goal.com|access-date=4 July 2019}} On 28 October 2019, James had his first son and second child, Samuel, to a surrogate in Medellín.{{Cite web|date=28 October 2019|title=Samuel, the second son of James Rodríguez, is born|url=https://en.liderendeportes.com/news/Beach-football/the-second-son-of-james-rodriguez-is-born-samuel/|access-date=18 July 2021|website=Líder en deportes|language=en|archive-date=18 July 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210718195713/https://en.liderendeportes.com/news/Beach-football/the-second-son-of-james-rodriguez-is-born-samuel/|url-status=dead}}{{Cite web|date=9 November 2019|title=Conoce los detalles más íntimos del nacimiento de Samuel, el hijo de James Rodríguez|url=https://www.caracoltv.com/actualidad/conoce-los-detalles-mas-intimos-del-nacimiento-de-samuel-el-hijo-de-james-rodriguez|access-date=18 July 2021|website=Caracol TV|language=es}}

James is a devout Catholic.{{Cite web|last=Julio 2014|first=Por: Melissa Vargas 08 de|date=8 July 2014|title=Religious faith keeps these soccer players going in the World Cup|url=https://laopinion.com/2014/07/08/religious-faith-keeps-these-soccer-players-going-in-the-world-cup/|access-date=7 September 2021|website=La Opinión|language=es|archive-date=6 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230906044806/https://laopinion.com/2014/07/08/religious-faith-keeps-these-soccer-players-going-in-the-world-cup/|url-status=dead}}

He acquired Spanish citizenship in 2019.{{Cite web|url=https://www.espn.com/soccer/colombia/story/3820651/reports-bayerns-james-rodriguez-earns-spanish-citizenship|title=Reports: Bayern's James becomes Spanish citizen|date=8 April 2019|publisher=ESPN | access-date=10 June 2019 | first = Adriana | last = Garcia}}{{Cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/2019/04/08/5cab68ba268e3e72018b463d.html|title=James Rodriguez gains Spanish citizenship, making Real Madrid return more likely|date=8 April 2019|website=Marca|location=Spain |access-date=10 June 2019 | first = Ryan | last = Abberley}}

During his early days playing in South America, James was approached by Adidas head scout Claus Peter Meyer. He featured occasionally in various adverts for Adidas as well as the Colombian beverage "Pony Malta", Nestlé drink "Milo", and the shampoo "Clear".{{cite web | url = https://www.sportsbusinessdaily.com/Global/Issues/2014/07/25/Marketing-and-Sponsorship/Rodriguez.aspx | title = Real Madrid's James Rodríguez's Marketability on the Rise As Endorsements Pile Up | website = SportsBusiness Daily | date = 25 July 2014 | access-date = 9 April 2018}} After the 2014 World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament's top goal scorer with six goals, Adidas took advantage of James' increased exposure and issued him his own custom gold boots to celebrate his achievement and increase the brand's on-pitch association with their new star asset.{{cite web | url = http://www.footballboots.co.uk/20370-james-rodriguez-gold-miadidas.html | title = James Rodriguez Miadidas Golden Boot Boots | website = footballboots.co.uk | date = 8 August 2014 | access-date = 9 April 2018}}

{{updated|match played 14 March 2025}}

{{notelist}}

{{updated|match played 25 March 2025}}{{cite web | url = http://www.national-football-teams.com/player/45187/James_Rodriguez.html | title = James Rodríguez | website = National Football Teams | access-date = 28 June 2018}}

:Scores and results list Colombia's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Rodríguez goal.

Envigado

• Categoría Primera B: 2007

Banfield

• Primera División Argentina: Apertura 2009{{cite news|title=The James Rodríguez story|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2014/07/the-james-rodriguez-story|access-date=7 December 2021|publisher=Real Madrid CF}}

Porto

• Primeira Liga: 2010–11, 2011–12, 2012–13{{cite web|title=Real Madrid Transfer News (2015-2016)|url=https://www.realmadrid.com/football/signings|access-date=7 December 2021|publisher=Real Madrid CF}}
• Taça de Portugal: 2010–11
• Supertaça Cândido de Oliveira: 2012
• UEFA Europa League: 2010–11

Real Madrid{{cite web|url=https://int.soccerway.com/players/james-david-rodriguez/72408/|title=J. Rodríguez|publisher=Soccerway|access-date=4 June 2016}}

• La Liga: 2016–17, 2019–20{{cite news|url=https://www.laliga.com/en-GB/news/real-madrid-win-2019-20-laliga-santander|title=Real Madrid win 2019/20 LaLiga Santander|date=16 July 2020|publisher=La Liga|access-date=17 July 2020}}
• Supercopa de España: 2020{{cite web|url=https://www.marca.com/en/football/real-madrid/cronica/2020/01/12/5e1b882ce2704e6d7a8b4598.html|title=Real Madrid win the Supercopa from the spot|date=12 January 2020|access-date=12 January 2020|website=Marca|location=Spain}}
• UEFA Champions League: 2015–16, 2016–17
• UEFA Super Cup: 2014, 2016
• FIFA Club World Cup: 2014, 2016

Bayern Munich

• Bundesliga: 2017–18, 2018–19
• DFB-Pokal: 2018–19

São Paulo

• Copa do Brasil: 2023

Colombia U20

• Toulon Tournament: 2011

Colombia

• Copa América runner-up: 2024; third place: 2016

Individual

• FIFA U-20 World Cup top assist provider: 2011{{cite web |url=https://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/archive/colombia2011/statistics/players/goal-scored.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023011212/http://www.fifa.com/u20worldcup/archive/colombia2011/statistics/players/goal-scored.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=23 October 2017 |title=FIFA U-20 World Cup Colombia 2011 - Statistics - Players - Top goals |access-date=22 October 2017}}
• Toulon Tournament Best Player: 2011{{cite news |url=https://www.rsssf.org/tablest/toulon2011.html |title=Tournoi Espoirs de Toulon – Official Player Awards | publisher = Rec.Sport.Soccer Statistics Foundation |date=30 May 2013 |access-date=4 July 2017}}
• LPFP Primeira Liga Breakthrough Player of the Year: 2011–12{{Cite web|title=Liga Portugal|url=https://www.ligaportugal.pt/|access-date=7 December 2021|website=Liga Portugal}}
• SJPF Player of the Month: August 2012, September 2012{{cite web|url=http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga//interior.aspx?content_id=781356|title=Liga NOS|access-date=8 October 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150924121123/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/Nacional/1a_liga//interior.aspx?content_id=781356|archive-date=24 September 2015|url-status=dead}}
• Record Team of the Year: 2012{{cite news|url=http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/interior_premium.aspx?content_id=796439|title=Record elege o onze de 2012|trans-title=Record elects the eleven of 2012|work=A Bola|language=pt|date=1 January 2013|access-date=1 January 2013|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130101111334/http://www.record.xl.pt/Futebol/interior_premium.aspx?content_id=796439|archive-date=1 January 2013}}
• O Jogo Team of the Year: 2012, 2013{{cite news|url=https://www.ojogo.pt/destaques/interior/joao-moutinho-e-mais-dez-craques-2970550.html|title=João Moutinho e mais dez craques|trans-title=João Moutinho and ten aces|work=O Jogo|language=pt|date=31 December 2012|access-date=12 February 2013|archive-date=7 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170807124009/http://www.ojogo.pt/destaques/interior/joao-moutinho-e-mais-dez-craques-2970550.html|url-status=dead}}{{cite web|title=O melhor onze da I Liga|url=https://www.ojogo.pt/multimedia/fotografias/interior/o-melhor-onze-da-i-liga-3610373.html|access-date=7 December 2021|website=Ojogo|date=January 2014 }}
• Portuguese Golden Ball: 2012
• Ligue 1 top assist provider: 2013–14{{cite web|title=French Ligue 1 Stats: Assists Leaders – 2013–14|url=http://www.espnfc.com/stats/assists/_/league/fra.1/french-ligue-1?cc=5739|publisher=ESPN FC|access-date=20 May 2014}}
• UNFP Ligue 1 Team of the Year: 2013–14
• AS Monaco Player of the Year: 2013–14

{{cite web |url=http://www.asm-fc.com/fr/communaute/sondages-322.html?poll_id=19#19 |title=Sondages {{pipe}} Communauté |publisher=AS Monaco FC |access-date=24 June 2014 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140715002327/http://www.asm-fc.com/fr/communaute/sondages-322.html?poll_id=19#19 |archive-date=15 July 2014 |url-status=dead }}

• Globe Revelation Player: 2014{{cite news |date=31 December 2014 |title=Ronaldo, Real sweep Globe Soccer awards |url=https://www.dawn.com/news/1154062 |access-date=3 June 2024 |website=Dawn}}
• FIFA World Cup Golden Boot: 2014{{cite web|url=https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/football/28279730|title=World Cup 2014: James Rodriguez wins Golden Boot|date=13 July 2014|access-date=14 July 2014|work=BBC Sport}}
• FIFA World Cup All-Star Team: 2014
• FIFA World Cup Dream Team: 2014{{cite web | url = https://www.fifa.com/worldcup/games/dream-team/index.html | archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20140528003307/http://www.fifa.com/worldcup/games/dream-team/index.html | url-status = dead | archive-date = 28 May 2014 | title = The Dream Team | publisher = FIFA | access-date = 21 September 2014}}
• FIFA World Cup Goal of the Tournament: 2014
• FIFA Puskás Award: 2014{{cite news |title=FIFA Puskás award 2014 – results |url=http://resources.fifa.com/mm/document/ballon-dor/puskasaward/02/50/58/03/puskas_votes_1_neutral.pdf |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150113185757/http://resources.fifa.com/mm/document/ballon-dor/puskasaward/02/50/58/03/puskas_votes_1_neutral.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-date=13 January 2015 |publisher=FIFA |date=12 January 2015 |access-date=30 July 2015}}
• La Liga Team of the Season: 2014–15{{cite web |title=The 2014/15 Liga BBVA Ideal XI |url=http://www.laliga.es/en/news/the-201415-liga-bbva-ideal-xi |publisher=LFP |date=15 June 2015 |access-date=17 June 2015 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180915085526/http://www.laliga.es/en/news/the-201415-liga-bbva-ideal-xi |archive-date=15 September 2018 |url-status=dead }}
• La Liga Best Midfielder: 2014–15{{cite news |url=http://www.laliga.es/en/news/james-rodriguez-201415-liga-bbva-best-midfielder |title=James Rodriguez, 2014/15 Liga BBVA Best Midfielder |publisher=LFP |date=30 November 2015 |access-date=4 July 2017 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171023010652/http://www.laliga.es/en/news/james-rodriguez-201415-liga-bbva-best-midfielder |archive-date=23 October 2017 |url-status=dead }}
• UEFA Team of the Year: 2015
• UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season: 2017–18{{cite web|url=https://www.uefa.com/uefachampionsleague/news/0253-0d8222ae4584-fc81fa8bf4d6-1000--uefa-champions-league-squad-of-the-season/|title=UEFA Champions League Squad of the Season|publisher=UEFA|date=27 May 2018}}
• Bundesliga Team of the Season: 2017–18{{cite web|url=https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/fifa-18-ultimate-team-of-the-season-james-rodriguez-reus-lewandowski-pulisic-479371.jsp|title=CONFIRMED 2017/18 Bundesliga FIFA 18 Team of the Season|publisher=Bundesliga|access-date=5 June 2018|archive-date=9 April 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200409080737/https://www.bundesliga.com/en/news/Bundesliga/fifa-18-ultimate-team-of-the-season-james-rodriguez-reus-lewandowski-pulisic-479371.jsp|url-status=dead}}
• Facebook FA La Liga Best Goal: 2016{{cite web|url=http://www.realmadrid.com/en/news/2016/05/five-madridistas-pick-up-prizes-at-the-facebook-football-awards|title=Five madridistas pick up prizes at the Facebook Football Awards|publisher=Real Madrid C.F.|quote=Ronaldo (best striker and best player), James (best goal), Modric (best midfielder), Marcelo (best defender) and Navas (best goalkeeper) were the winners at the ceremony which took place at Facebook's offices in Madrid. The Real Madrid fans were also chosen as the best supporters in La Liga.|date=12 May 2016|access-date=13 July 2016|location=Madrid, Spain}}
• Copa del Rey top assist provider: 2016–17{{cite web |url=http://www.espnfc.com/spanish-copa-del-rey/80/statistics/assists?season=2016 |title=Spanish Copa del Rey Statistics |publisher=ESPN FC |access-date=22 October 2017}}
• New species of coral named after him, Paragorgia jamesi{{Cite journal|last1=Herrera|first1=Santiago|last2=Shank|first2=Timothy M.|date=1 July 2016|title=RAD sequencing enables unprecedented phylogenetic resolution and objective species delimitation in recalcitrant divergent taxa|journal=Molecular Phylogenetics and Evolution|volume=100|pages=70–79|doi=10.1016/j.ympev.2016.03.010|pmid=26993764|doi-access=free}}
• Copa América Team of the Tournament: 2019,{{cite web|url=https://copaamerica.com/es/noticias/El-equipo-ideal-de-la-CONMEBOL-Copa-America-Brasil-2019|title=El equipo ideal de la CONMEBOL Copa América Brasil 2019|publisher=CONMEBOL|date=9 July 2019|language=es|access-date=10 July 2019|archive-date=9 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190709223649/https://copaamerica.com/es/noticias/El-equipo-ideal-de-la-CONMEBOL-Copa-America-Brasil-2019|url-status=dead}} 2024{{cite news |title=The CONMEBOL Copa América 2024™ Best XI |url=https://copaamerica.com/en/news/best-xi-team-tournament-copa-america-2024 |website=Copa América |access-date=31 July 2024 |date=31 July 2024}}
• Copa América Golden Ball: 2024{{cite news|url=https://copaamerica.com/en/news/james-rodriguez-colombia-best-player-copa-america-2024-award|title=James Rodríguez Named the Best Player of CONMEBOL Copa America 2024™|website=Copa América|date=15 July 2024|access-date=15 July 2024}}

• List of men's footballers with 100 or more international caps

{{reflist}}

{{Commons category}}

• [https://www.rayovallecano.es/jugadores/james-rodriguez Profile] at the Rayo Vallecano website
• {{LFP Ligue 1|james-rodriguez-rubio}}
• {{FIFA player}}
• {{UEFA player}}

{{Club León squad}}

{{Navboxes

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{{Colombia squad 2014 FIFA World Cup}}

{{Colombia squad 2015 Copa América}}

{{Colombia squad Copa América Centenario}}

{{Colombia squad 2018 FIFA World Cup}}

{{Colombia squad 2019 Copa América}}

{{Colombia squad 2024 Copa América}}

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{{2014 FIFA World Cup Team of the Tournament}}

{{2019 Copa América Team of the Tournament}}

{{2024 Copa América Team of the Tournament}}

{{FIFA World Cup Golden Boot}}

{{Copa América MVP}}

{{2015 UEFA Team of the Year}}

{{2013–14 Ligue 1 UNFP Team of the Year}}

{{2014–15 La Liga Team of the Year}}

{{2017–18 kicker Bundesliga Team of the Season}}

{{La Liga Attacking Midfielder of the Year}}

{{Portuguese Golden Ball}}

{{FIFA Puskás Award winners}}

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{{DEFAULTSORT:Rodriguez, James}}

Category:1991 births

Category:Living people

Category:Sportspeople from Cúcuta

Category:Colombian men's footballers

Category:Men's association football forwards

Category:Envigado F.C. players

Category:Club Atlético Banfield footballers

Category:FC Porto players

Category:AS Monaco FC players

Category:Real Madrid CF players

Category:FC Bayern Munich footballers

Category:Everton F.C. players

Category:Al-Rayyan SC players

Category:Olympiacos F.C. players

Category:São Paulo FC players

Category:Rayo Vallecano players

Category:Club León footballers

Category:Categoría Primera B players

Category:Categoría Primera A players

Category:Argentine Primera División players

Category:Primeira Liga players

Category:Ligue 1 players

Category:La Liga players

Category:Bundesliga players

Category:Premier League players

Category:Qatar Stars League players

Category:Super League Greece players

Category:Campeonato Brasileiro Série A players

Category:Liga MX players

Category:UEFA Champions League–winning players

Category:UEFA Europa League–winning players

Category:Colombia men's under-20 international footballers

Category:21st-century Colombian sportsmen

Category:Colombia men's international footballers

Category:2014 FIFA World Cup players

Category:2015 Copa América players

Category:Copa América Centenario players

Category:2018 FIFA World Cup players

Category:2019 Copa América players

Category:2024 Copa América players

Category:FIFA Men's Century Club

Category:Colombian expatriate men's footballers

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Argentina

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in England

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Germany

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Portugal

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Monaco

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Spain

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Qatar

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Greece

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Brazil

Category:Colombian expatriate sportspeople in Mexico

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Argentina

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in England

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Germany

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Portugal

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Monaco

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Spain

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Qatar

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Greece

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Brazil

Category:Expatriate men's footballers in Mexico

Category:Naturalised citizens of Spain

Category:Colombian Christians

Category:People from Ibagué

Category:Footballers from Tolima Department