Real Madrid defender Pepe has hailed the signing of Colombian playmaker James Rodriguez.
The 23-year-old joined Los Blancos last week from Monaco in a 80 million euro deal, putting pen-to-paper- on a six-year deal in the Spanish capital. The left-footed player had a superb World Cup in Brazil in June and early July, scoring six goals in five games, including goal of the tournament – a brilliant long range effort against Uruguay in the second round.
Speaking to Marca, Portugal defender Pepe said he was delighted to see James join the 10-time European Cup winners. And he admitted he had known about the player for a long time having watched him play at Porto.
“He’s a very talented player,” the defender stated. And he continued: “I saw him when he played at Porto and he has a very good left foot. It’s amazing that Madrid have signed such a great player.”
The 31-year-old also spoke about his club and international team mate Cristiano Ronaldo, and said he will be back to fitness ahead of the new campaign. The 29-year-old played through the pain at times last season as he helped Los Blancos to success in the Copa del Rey and Champions League. He suffered a hamstring strain and also had a long-term problem with tendinitis in his knee.
But Pepe said: “Cristiano had time to relax and unwind with his family. He’s well and I think he’ll be at his best.”
