James Rodriguez Praises Cristiano: A True Role Model and a Wonderful Person On and Off the Field
Colombian national team captain James Rodriguez praised his former Real Madrid teammate Cristiano Ronaldo, emphasizing that the Portuguese star was among the first players to welcome him when he joined the royal club in the summer of 2014, and that their relationship quickly developed into a strong friendship.
James said: "Cristiano is a role model. When I arrived at Real Madrid, he was one of the first people to welcome me, invited me to his home, and since then we have become close friends."
The Colombian star added: "He is a wonderful person and an exemplary figure for everyone. Just look at his physical condition at the age of 41," praising the professionalism and discipline that distinguishes the captain of the Portuguese national team at this stage of his career.
James' statements came after the Colombia-Portugal match in the 2026 World Cup, which witnessed an emotional friendly encounter between the two stars before the match, reminiscent of the years they played together wearing the Real Madrid jersey, during which they won seven titles.
James said: "Cristiano is a role model. When I arrived at Real Madrid, he was one of the first people to welcome me, invited me to his home, and since then we have become close friends."
The Colombian star added: "He is a wonderful person and an exemplary figure for everyone. Just look at his physical condition at the age of 41," praising the professionalism and discipline that distinguishes the captain of the Portuguese national team at this stage of his career.
James' statements came after the Colombia-Portugal match in the 2026 World Cup, which witnessed an emotional friendly encounter between the two stars before the match, reminiscent of the years they played together wearing the Real Madrid jersey, during which they won seven titles.
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