Biography
Who is James Rodríguez?
Early life and career beginnings
James Rodríguez was born in Cúcuta, Norte de Santander, and spent his childhood in Ibagué, Tolima. He was born to Wilson James Rodríguez Bedoya and Maria Del Pilar Rubio. James Rodríguez started his professional career in 2006 with the Colombian club Envigado. He became the second youngest Colombian player to start a professional match when he debuted on May 21, 2006, at the age of 14. Although Envigado suffered relegation at that time, he helped the team secure promotion by winning the 2007 Primera B title.
In February 2008, James Rodríguez moved to Argentina and joined the club Banfield. He made his first team debut on February 7, 2009, becoming the youngest foreigner in Argentine football history. Later that year, he became the youngest foreigner to score a goal in Argentina. His performance helped Banfield win the Argentine championship for the first time in the club history during the Apertura tournament.
Porto and European success
On July 6, 2010, James Rodríguez signed with the Portuguese club Porto. He scored his first competitive goal in December 2010 during a Europa League match against CSKA Sofia. During his time with Porto, he won multiple titles, including the UEFA Europa League, the league title, the Super Cup, and the Cup title in a historic season. In 2011, he won the LPFP Award for Breakthrough Player of the Primeira Liga season.
During the 2011 to 2012 season, James Rodríguez scored 14 goals and delivered 11 assists for Porto. He received the Portuguese Golden Ball award in 2012, becoming the second Colombian player to earn this honor after Radamel Falcao. He continued to play a regular role for the club until his subsequent transfer to other European teams.
Real Madrid and international career
James Rodríguez transferred to Real Madrid in 2014. During his debut season with the club, he recorded 13 goals and 12 assists in 29 appearances, earning the official La Liga Best Midfielder award. He also won trophies including a La Liga title and two UEFA Champions League titles during his time at the club.
At the international level, James Rodríguez debuted for the Colombia men's national football team in 2011. He played in the FIFA World Cup in 2014, winning the tournament Golden Boot and the FIFA Puskás Award for his goal against Uruguay. He also represented Colombia at the Copa América tournaments in 2015, 2016, 2019, and 2024, helping his country reach the final in 2024 and receiving the Golden Ball as the best player of the tournament.
Birthday and age
James Rodríguez was born on July 12, 1991, which makes James 35 years old today. That birthday falls under the Cancer sign. James shares the date with 62 other famous people.
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