James Rodriguez proclaims himself better than Zidane, Kroos, Modric, and Xavi!

Since leaving European football, James Rodriguez has remained in the headlines, not necessarily for his performances on the pitch, but for his bold and often controversial statements. His most recent claim, made during an appearance on the Spanish television show El Chiringuito, has ignited widespread debate among football fans and pundits alike.

When asked about how he compares to Zinedine Zidane, James did not hesitate to place himself above the legendary Frenchman. Despite Zidane’s historic achievements—including winning the 1998 World Cup, the Ballon d’Or, and delivering iconic performances for both France and Real Madrid—James confidently stated, “Zidane was great, no doubt, but at my peak, I was better.” This assertion shocked many, considering that James’ career trajectory has not come close to Zidane’s in terms of accolades or influence.

Not stopping there, James further claimed that, at his best, he surpassed the likes of Luka Modric, Toni Kroos, and Xavi Hernandez—three of the most decorated and revered midfielders in football history.

Luka Modric, still playing at the highest level, has won multiple Champions League titles with Real Madrid and led Croatia to the 2018 World Cup final, earning the prestigious Ballon d’Or the same year. Toni Kroos, a midfield maestro, has been an instrumental figure in Real Madrid’s sustained dominance, winning numerous domestic and international trophies with both club and country. Meanwhile, Xavi orchestrated Barcelona’s golden era and played a crucial role in Spain’s unprecedented back-to-back Euro and World Cup triumphs between 2008 and 2012.

For James to rank himself above such illustrious names naturally sparked controversy. While his career has been impressive, it does not compare to the consistency and sustained excellence demonstrated by Zidane, Modric, Kroos, and Xavi over the years.

James Rodriguez’s career has been marked by both dazzling highs and frustrating lows. He burst onto the global stage with a sensational performance at the 2014 World Cup, winning the Golden Boot with six goals. This earned him a high-profile move to Real Madrid from AS Monaco. However, despite flashes of brilliance, he struggled to cement himself as an undisputed starter under multiple managers at the Bernabeu.

His loan move to Bayern Munich provided a temporary revival, but he failed to establish himself as a long-term asset for the German giants. A subsequent transfer to Everton initially showed promise, but injuries and inconsistent performances hindered his impact. His moves to Qatar, Greece, and now Mexico have only reinforced the perception that his career has been on a downward spiral, starkly contrasting with the longevity and dominance of the legends he now compares himself to.

Naturally, James’ comments triggered strong reactions across football circles. Some of his supporters praised his confidence, arguing that he was underappreciated throughout his career. However, the overwhelming majority dismissed his statements as exaggerated, emphasizing that true footballing greatness is measured by sustained excellence, impact, and influence over time.

Zidane’s legacy as a player is indisputable, with his elegant playing style, technical mastery, and ability to deliver in the biggest moments setting him apart. From his iconic volley in the 2002 Champions League final to his dominant displays for France, Zidane’s influence transcends generations.

Luka Modric’s resilience and ability to dictate games deep into his 30s make him one of the greatest midfielders of all time. His ability to control the tempo, provide decisive passes, and deliver in high-pressure situations showcases a level of greatness that few can match.

Toni Kroos, often referred to as a midfield metronome, has dictated the game’s rhythm with his impeccable passing and vision. His contribution to Real Madrid’s European dominance has been immense, with his ability to control and distribute the ball at an elite level.

Xavi, the ultimate maestro, was the backbone of Barcelona’s tiki-taka philosophy, orchestrating the midfield with precision. His impact extended to the Spanish national team, where he played a crucial role in their golden era, helping Spain secure their first-ever World Cup in 2010.

For James Rodriguez to claim superiority over these legends seems far-fetched. While his talent is undeniable, he has not maintained the elite-level consistency required to be considered in the same bracket as these midfield greats. His peaks were short-lived, and his influence never reached the heights of Zidane, Modric, Kroos, or Xavi.

The question now is whether James genuinely believes in his statements or if he is merely trying to stir controversy and remain relevant in football discourse. Regardless, his comments have ensured that he remains in the spotlight, even if it is not for the reasons he might have hoped for.

Ultimately, football history will remember James Rodriguez for his breathtaking moments rather than his dominance. His World Cup heroics, his early promise at Real Madrid, and his natural flair will always be acknowledged. However, comparing himself to the likes of Zidane, Modric, Kroos, and Xavi only highlights the gap between his potential and his actual achievements.

While confidence is an essential trait for any footballer, reality and perspective are equally important. James Rodriguez’s place in football history is secure as a supremely talented player who entertained fans, but when it comes to ranking among the all-time greats, the evidence simply does not support his bold claims.