Real Madrid Midfielder Hints At Desire To Leave, Denies Tension With Zinedine Zidane

A Real Madrid midfielder has denied claims he was affected by the controversies surrounding Zinedine Zidane and not having enough playing time.

Los Blancos midfielder James Rodriguez barely played for Zidane this season. The lack of playing time on the pitch has sparked controversy between him, Zidane and his homeland Colombia. However, Rodriguez has insisted that he’s a true professional and that he and the legendary coach have a normal relationship.

Speaking to Gol Caracol (via Besoccer.com), the 28-year-old played down the rumored rift between him and Zidane caused by comments from his fans back home. According to Rodriguez, contrary to what has been said, there has been no tension between them and the birth of his son had nothing to do with his career.

"There was never a problem. Every coach has his preferences. We have a normal relationship, a working one. Not at all, what problems is the birth of a son going to cause?" Rodriguez explained.

Rodriguez further emphasized that the things that have been said about him are “almost all lies.” After all, the Colombian player is grateful for the people who believe in him.

"A lot of things are said about me and they are almost all lies. What makes me most uncomfortable is that my professionalism is questioned, I don't accept that. I'm very professional, that is why I have reached where I have reached. It makes me calm that there are people on my side and those who have worked with me know what I am talking about,” he emphasized.

Despite clearing the air between him and Zidane, many, including Rodrgiuez himself, are still baffled by the fact that he barely plays for the squad. Rodriguez then revealed that if he will be given a chance, he would choose to go to a club where he can shine as a player.

“I look after myself like no one else. I train loads every day. I always want to improve. In the future you don't know what is going to happen, but if I could choose, I would pick a club where I could show my ability,” Rodriguez revealed.

Aside from Rodriguez, Zidane has also been dealing with a series of controversies regarding Real Madrid and its officials. ESPN recently reported that the Los Blancos coach has finally grown tired of hearing people talking about “just one thing” – the referees. According to Zidane, he knows they “can’t control controversy,” but at the end of the day, “there’s a team here” and that is what’s more important.