Upon Zinedine Zidane's exit, many speculated whether James Rodriguez would end his spell with Bayern Munich for a return to Real Madrid. It was under the French tactician that the Colombian star struggled to get playing time.
Furthermore, the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo is gone, meaning the club is in need of an attacking talent to help fill his void, was more cause to bring back the South American sensation. However, according to Marca, the 27-year-old will not be back at the Bernabeu for the 2018/19 season.
The report by the Spanish publication states that the player feels "ethically" incorrect to leave the Allianz Arena earlier than expected after receiving love and support from the fans and the club at a time when he was at a low. The Bundesliga champion holds the same belief as it was none other than the German giant that helped James rediscover his form.
As a result, die Roten has no intention of letting the Colombian go. The loan deal that they agreed with Los Blancos was for two years and Bayern Munich thus plans on keeping the player until 2019.
However, playing for Real Madrid is a dream that the former Monaco ace still holds. Despite the torrid time he endured under Zidane, the attacker still holds affection for the Champions League holder and will likely voice his desire for a return in a year's time.
This is something Julen Lopetegui, who is an admirer of James, hopes to profit from. Bayern Munich has a purchase option in the deal agreed with Real Madrid and they intend on triggering it to acquire the footballer on a permanent deal. Nonetheless, the German outfit may opt against spending $49m on a player who wishes to be elsewhere which could clear the path for Rodriguez's return.
