Former Colombia national team coach Hernan Gomez believes attacking midfielder James Rodriguez should depart Real Madrid in a bid to secure more playing time.
The Colombia has struggled since Zinedine Zidane took over the managerial reins at the club, as it is felt the Colombian star disrupts the balance of the Los Blancos side.
The 24-year-old was signed in a colossal £63-million deal jus two seasons ago, but managed a meagre 17 league starts this term, while failing to make it off the bench for the Galacticos’ Champions League final victory over city rivals Atletico Madrid.
Though believed to be keen to stay and fight for his place at Real, Gomez believes the player should look to move elsewhere.
‘I’ll give James some advice,’ Gomez told WIN Sports.
‘It’s best for him to go to another team because it’s been shown that the man doesn’t want to play him.
‘He’s a world-class player and he would have to go to another team … it’s a very personal concept, he’s our idol and we want to see him play, but this boss won’t put him in. I don’t like it.’
Rodriguez scored a penalty as Colombia eased past the United States 2-0 in their opening fixture of the Copa America on Sunday.
James will look to continue his fine national team form when Colombia take on Paraguay at the Rose Bowl in California.
Kick-off is at 22:30 on Tuesday.
