James, 4 months without playing an official match

James Rodriguez continues to see no action in the 21/22 season. Although he already trains alongside his teammates at Everton, for Rafa Benítez he is still not at the level of the others in terms of physical condition and you must wait at least until next weekend to make your official presentation with the Liverpool team in the new campaign.

The Colombian, who a few days ago disagreed with the Spanish coach and assured that it is in optimal conditions, was left out of the duel with Burnley for the fourth date of the Premier, a match that ended 3-1 in favor of the Toffees, and therefore will complete 4 months without playing an official match. Although he played several friendlies between July and August, he has not played for points for 120 days.

His last official appearance was on May 15 against Sheffield United, in what was lost by the smallest difference at Goodison Park, valid for matchday 36 of the English league 20/21. That day he started and played 78 minutes under Carlo Ancelotti. Since then, Due to injuries, technical decisions and isolations, James has missed 19 commitments taking into account the club and the National Team.

The 30-year-old missed the last two Everton games last season due to physical issues, The same reason why Reinaldo Rueda did not summon him for the June Elimination dates and the subsequent Copa América in Brazil. At the beginning of this campaign, the ’19’ had to comply with several days of isolation due to having close contact with a positive case of COVID-19 and was low for the first days of the Premier League and the debut in the Carabao Cup. absent in duels of Colombia vs. Bolivia, Paraguay and Chile for the 2022 World Cup Qualifiers.

James is expected to continue training with the rest of the group and Add minutes next Saturday, September 18, when those led by Benítez face Aston Villa in Villa Park. In addition to the months that accumulated without seeing official action, the last time the midfielder completed 90 ‘in an Everton game was on April 16, in a 2-2 draw against Tottenham by league.

James, his future in Everton and the National Team

The fate of the Colombian remains unknown. At a press conference, Rafa Benítez left his continuity in doubt despite the fact that the transfer period has already closed in most countries. “Some markets are open, we had some problems with the financial Fair Play rules, so we have to consider any options and see what happens (…) If he stays, we have to find the right matches for him and he has to show his commitment , your wish, “said DT.

Secondly, Rodríguez still does not give clues about his future in the Colombian National Team. “All in due time”, commented on a Twitch stream when asked about a possible return to the national team. He has not played with the Tricolor since November of last year.