James Rodríguez was the breakthrough star in the 2014 FIFA World Cup, carrying Colombia all the way to the Quarterfinals. He was snapped up by Real Madrid and is till date the 4th most expensive transfer in history. Here are 10 unpopular things you didn’t know about James Rodríguez.
He stuttered as a child
Coming from a humble background, James used to stammer when young. This meant he had to attend speech therapy classes weekly. Naturally shy, James struggled a lot for his stutter and it also resulted in his lack of confidence and self-appreciation. Is this true about James Rodríguez?
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James married a teammate’s sister
James Rodríguez is married to Colombian teammate David Ospina’s sister and the couple have a daughter together. James has tattooed his daughter’s face on his forearm and kisses the tattoo when he scores for club or country. So much that says about James Rodríguez.
James is trying to be an engineer
Despite being one of the most sought-after talents in World football, James Rodríguez focuses on being educated and smart. Hence, he has taken up an online course in engineering at the Universidad Nacional Abierta. Quite the man, we must say, on this about James Rodríguez.
James is the face of an Energy Drink
James Rodríguez is a beloved figure in his native Colombia. He has an energy drink to his name, namely 10 Gold, to celebrate the No.10 jersey he wears for club and country. The money that is raised by the sale of this energy drink goes to sponsor education for underprivileged kids in Colombia. Isn’t it the most fascinating thing about James Rodríguez?
James has his own customized boots
Adidas, the clothing and accessories brand invested in James Rodríguez when they launched a range of football boots customized with gold linings to celebrate James’ 2014 World Cup achievements. The deal went on to be a hit and increased both James’ and Adidas’ brand value.
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James’ father played for Colombia as well
It is not only James who represented the national team from his family. James’ father Wilson Rodríguez also played for the Colombian national team in his days. His wife Daniele Ospina plays volleyball for the Colombian national Women’s Volleyball team. Another incredible thing about James Rodríguez!
James could have started his career in Italy
James made the move from South America to Europe in 2010 moving to Portuguese club FC Porto for 5.1 million pounds. However, few know that Italian club Udinese had also scouted him and were on a deal being struck before Porto came calling. James moved from Portugal to France, spending a couple of years with AS Monaco before his exploits in the 2014 World Cup convinced Real Madrid to snap him up. Another interesting fact about James Rodríguez!
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James is a Galactico
Real Madrid‘s second wave of Galacticos include the Colombian superstar. James Rodríguez’ move from Monaco to Madrid created a lot of stir as he was hailed a Galactico, given the jersey No.10 and had a special speech being made by the Colombian ambassador with a message from Colombian president Juan Manuel Santos.
James idolised a teammate
James Rodríguez grew up in Portugal after his move from Colombia. He idolized Cristiano Ronaldo during his time in Ronaldo’s native country. Little did he know, that a few years later he would be lining up side by side with one of the greatest footballers in Cristiano Ronaldo. This is one of the best things about James Rodríguez.
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James is a LeBron fan
James Rodríguez grew up watching basketball apart from football and his favorite player is LeBron James. He supports the US superstar in the NBA and even wished him luck before the World Cup last year.