Real Madrid head coach Zinedine Zidane refused to be drawn on transfer speculation about midfielder James Rodríguez when quizzed after last night’s victory over Bayern Munich. Speaking after the 0-1 International Champions Cup win in New Jersey, the Frenchman had only positive words about the Colombian.
“I’m happy with his performance, happy to have him here with the team playing his first 45 minutes along with players like Luka Modric and Sergio Ramos, getting rhythm. He is here with us and, as our team will keep working, we will look to get better as a team.”
The 25-year-old made his first appearance in the starting XI after his exploits in the Copa America Centenario and was responsible for one of the only positive moments in a first half dominated by the BundesLiga champions. However, Real Madrid improved after half-time and broke the deadlock with just over 10 minutes to go, thanks to a fine strike by full-back Danilo.
Zidane was also asked about the progress of Cristiano Ronaldo and seemed relaxed about the situation. “Right now Cristiano still has his injury and obviously he wants to be back but we need patience and for him to be calm.” he asserted and quickly followed up by assuring any worried fans “He will be back with us soon in Madrid.”
Three-time Ballon d’Or winner Ronaldo is still sidelined with an injury sustained during Portugal’s 1-0 victory over France in the Euro 2016 final. The injury has prevented him from taking part in any of Real Madrid’s pre-season preparations and Zidane has already ruled the 31-year-old out of the UEFA Super Cup clash with Sevilla. At this stage, Ronaldo also remains a doubt for the La Liga opener away to Real Sociedad on August 21.
