Real Madrid's James Rodriguez says he is well aware of
the challenge he faces in securing a starting place during his debut season.
The Colombia international completed a move to the
Santiago Bernabeu earlier this month in a deal reported to be worth around
€80million, after impressing at the World Cup in Brazil.
Having spent a season with Monaco in Ligue 1, Rodriguez
is now preparing to bolster a squad already featuring formidable attacking
talent in the form of Cristiano Ronaldo, Gareth Bale, Karim Benzema and Angel
di Maria.
The former Porto playmaker does not consider himself a
guaranteed starter, despite his price tag, and is ready to fight for a place
under Ancelotti.
"I'm happy because being here is a dream come true.
Hopefully everything goes well. I want to win titles at this great club,"
he told Caracol Radio.
"I hope I'm a starter but I have to earn my place.
There are players who have spent years here and I have to respect that.
"I'll play where the coach wants. I can play on the
right or left wing or as an attacking midfielder. I'll try to earn my place
alongside these great players I have by my side.
"Wearing the number 10 is massive. It's something
that with it carries a lot of pressure. I hope I can carry this number
responsibly."
Rodriguez was also questioned as to whether he would
welcome another world-class striker in Real's ranks - namely former Porto and
Monaco team-mate Radamel Falcao.
"I'm sure he can play here. But I'm not the one who
decides. It's up to the president," he added.
"I've been playing with him for four years. The only
break was when he went to Atletico [Madrid]. He has a winning mentality and
that's what you want at [Real] Madrid. Hopefully he can come."
Culled from Soccerway
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