Colombian football sensation James Rodriguez has officially joined Rayo Vallecano, signing on for the 2024-25 LaLiga season. The announcement came on Monday evening, ending days of speculation about the star's next move. Rodriguez, who is 33 years old, is set to bring his vast international experience to the Madrid-based club, having previously played for Real Madrid, as well as in Qatar, Greece, and Brazil.

Rayo Vallecano fans are optimistic that Rodriguez will replicate the form that earned him the Best Player title at the recent Copa America. In that tournament, Rodriguez scored one goal and provided six assists—a record achievement. His impressive international resume and leadership as the captain of Colombia’s national team have set high expectations among Rayo supporters.

Upon signing, Rodriguez expressed his excitement and determination in an interview with the club's official website. "I feel great joy to join a club like Rayo, which has so much history. I am eager to do things well. Wherever I go, I feel that responsibility. I like to win," Rodriguez stated. He also shared his admiration for his compatriot Radamel Falcao, who previously played for Rayo. "Falcao is an idol for all of us in Colombia. He has done a lot for our country. I hope to perform as well here as he did," Rodriguez added.

Despite the excitement surrounding his arrival, Rayo fans will have to wait a bit longer to see Rodriguez in action. The club faced FC Barcelona on Tuesday, August 27, but Rodriguez did not participate in the match. The player needs to undergo a preparatory phase to reach full match fitness under head coach Iñigo Pérez.

Rayo Vallecano's next match is an away fixture against Espanyol, but Rodriguez's debut is more likely to occur the following week. The most anticipated date is September 15, when Rayo hosts Osasuna at home. It is expected that Rodriguez will don the iconic ‘franjiroja’ jersey for the first time then, marking his much-awaited return to LaLiga.

Fans and pundits alike are eagerly watching to see how Rodriguez's experience and skill will influence Rayo Vallecano’s performance this season.