Everton fans have been left feeling a sense of regret, following the announcement of James Rodriguez’s departure.
The Colombian playmaker joined Qatari side Al Rayyan for an undisclosed fee on Wednesday, after joining the Blues in September 2020.
Linking up with his old boss Carlo Ancelotti last summer, there was a feeling of optimism around his signing. A belief that the former Real Madrid talisman’s arrival could represent a new dawn for the club.
However, consistent injury problems saw Rodriguez restricted to 23 league appearances, with Everton supporters left wondering what could have been, having never seen him play in front of a crowd at Goodison.
READ MORE: Everton confirm James Rodriguez departure to Al Rayyan as transfer details are confirmed
Rodriguez was linked with moves away throughout the summer, after being made available following Ancelotti’s decision to swap Finch Farm for a return to Madrid in June.
AC Milan and Istanbul Basaksehir were two potential destinations mentioned, while also being offered to his former side Porto as part of a deal that would have seen Luis Diaz join the Toffees.
Despite not featuring under new boss Rafa Benitez , Everton could not reach a suitable agreement with another club, until Al Rayyan provided a solution.
The decision to sell Rodriguez is one that makes financial sense, with his significant wages now off the books, but Blues supporters will wonder if he could have done more during his year at the club.
His memorable assist for Richarlison’s goal against Liverpool was likely the highlight of his time in a Blues shirt, as the team recorded a 2-0 derby win in the club’s first victory at Anfield since 1999.
Having enjoyed a blistering start to life in England, he registered three goals and three assists in his opening five league games, his impact soon waned.
Undoubtedly a phenomenal talent at his best, the fact that Rodriguez failed to secure a move to an elite European club sums up how his once-promising spell at Everton ultimately fizzled out.
