This player scouting report was generated through watching a full live video of the match between Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid 22/06/2020.
Match: Real Sociedad vs Real Madrid 22/06/2020
Minutes Played: 78
Venue: Anoeta Stadium
Weather: Clear and dry conditions, no wind, 19 degrees
Overview: James Rodríguez is a 29 year old left footed Colombian midfielder who stands at 5ft 9in tall and can play a wide variety of midfield roles.
Technical:
James only looks to receive the ball on his left foot which can close his body shape and resulted in a lot of first time passes backwards towards teammates. His short passing is precise and nicely weighted to the correct side of the receiving player. James did not make any longer or successful progressive passes in this game. He displayed a variety of crossing from deep and often likes to play first time clipped crosses into the penalty area while also attempts first time through balls all with his left foot. Although none of these actions created shooting opportunities or created big chances they were good decisions and technically executed to a high standard. He is comfortable receiving the ball in any area of the pitch and on several occasions displayed outstanding ball manipulation when being pressured to retain possession and recycle the ball positively.
Tactical:
James played on the right of a front three in possession and dropped in to form a midfield four out of possession. In possession this was an inverted winger position and he did not look to stretch the pitch but rather come inside when receiving the ball on his left foot. When out of possession he displayed tactical discipline keeping excellent distances from his teammates to keep a compact team shape which helped to block passing lanes. He always looks to make positive diagonal runs into the box when the ball is in potential crossing positions on the opposite side. James did not look to engage in 1v1 duels with the opposing full back but prefers to cut inside and play short passes into central areas of the pitch.
Physical:
James is an average build. He displays average pace an accelration. When the team is in counter attacking situations transitioning up the pitch James does not have the required accelration to keep pace with the attack. James displays avergae agility and when recieving the ball has to turn towards goal in several actions. He has a tendency to go to ground as soon as an opposition player pysically enagges with him in a duel for posession. James has a nice smooth balanced running style and covers the ground adaqueatly enough. He does not display the pace to move away or beat players 1v1 but uses his technique and close control well to create a second action.
Summary:
James is a technically gifted versatile midfielder who has good vision, intelligence and tactical awareness. He showed good desire and his techniques and spacial awareness compensate for his lack of athletic mobility.
Grade: C
Recommended Clubs: Porto, AC Milan, Everton
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