James Rodriguez Reveals Carlo Ancelotti Altered His Manchester United Plans
In a segment from James Rodriguez’s Netflix documentary, the former Real Madrid star shared insights on how close he was to joining Manchester United before Bayern Munich made their move.
Rodriguez explained, “I was going to join Manchester United, and Jorge [Mendes] said to me, ‘Do you want to go to Bayern?’
“And I said, ‘Where am I going to play? There’s Ribery, Robben…’ He said, ‘Carlo [Ancelotti] asked for you.’”
His hesitation was understandable, as Bayern Munich already featured established attacking talents, while Manchester United represented a significant Premier League opportunity for a player in need of playing time and recognition after his time at Madrid.
Having previously worked under Ancelotti at Real Madrid during his standout season, Rodriguez felt more inclined toward Bayern due to the coach’s specific interest, which held more weight than a typical transfer pitch.
This existing rapport gave Bayern the upper hand, even as Manchester United appeared poised to be his next destination following his exit from Madrid.
Ancelotti’s Stark Warning Changed Rodriguez’s Course
Ancelotti’s direct approach was pivotal, redirecting Rodriguez from what he believed was his intended path.
Rodriguez recounted, “Carlo called me, and I said, I think I’m going to Manchester.’ And he replied, ‘What Manchester? Manchester are dead. You have to come here with me.’
“I think it was a good decision to go to Bayern Munich,” he concluded.
In 2017, Manchester United, managed by Jose Mourinho, had recently secured the Europa League and EFL Cup but struggled, finishing sixth in the Premier League while attempting to regain their former glory after Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure.
Bayern Munich, on the other hand, provided Rodriguez with a sense of stability. He joined the club on a two-year loan, securing Bundesliga titles and making 67 appearances, contributing 15 goals and 20 assists during his time in Germany.
While the move did not evolve into a long-term relationship with Bayern, Rodriguez’s perspective is clear: Ancelotti’s trust was crucial, United’s plan did not inspire him sufficiently, and choosing Bayern offered him a more suitable football environment at that time.