Former Colombia manager Jose Pekerman told Caracol Radio that James Rodriguez’s move to Atletico Nacional serves as a “farewell”, but insists the playmaker arrives with a “winning” mentality.
James Rodriguez announced his arrival at At. Nacional in style, providing the match-winning assist against Inter Bogota before setting his sights on a first start against Llaneros this weekend. His long-awaited return to Colombian domestic football has sparked immense excitement across the nation.
Argentine manager Jose Pekerman has emerged as one of the playmaker’s staunchest advocates. The veteran tactician oversaw Colombia’s memorable 2014 World Cup campaign, where James was propelled into global superstardom. Speaking to ‘Caracol Radio’, Pekerman made it clear that the attacking midfielder has not returned home for just a casual stint.
“James never stopped thinking about winning, and that was always his ultimate priority. He should now prove vital for Nacional,” insisted the manager, who fully understands his talisman’s homecoming. “From a sporting perspective, his move to the league works well as a farewell. He always harboured a desire to play in his home country, having left at such a young age without having that chance.”
Pekerman also highlighted the transformative effect James will have on his new teammates: “They know they are lining up alongside a world-class player and a top winner. They feel lifted to his level even if they are not quite there, drawing huge confidence from him because James drives success and is demanding when instilling that mentality.”
