Cristiano Ronaldo was the factor behind James Rodriguez’s decision to stay at Real Madrid this January despite interest from English league leaders Chelsea.
Antonio Conte’s men reportedly offered €90m for the Colombian in the wake of the midfielder’s admission that he could leave Real Madrid after the Club World Cup final victory over Kashima Antlers.
A report in Confidencial Colombia stated the Stamford Bridge club made Los Blancos aware of their interest and tabled a firm bid, with James then returning to Colombia for a week and requesting that he was given this time to consider his future.
It then claims that it was Portuguese star Ronaldo who convinced the 25-year-old to remain at the Bernabeu, giving him an inspirational pep talk.
Upon his return, manager Zinedine Zidane then took the former Porto and Monaco playmaker to one side and reiterated to him his importance within the squad.
“It's a new year and a new start – I'm staying,” James enthused after the Copa Del Rey first leg victory over Sevilla last week, in which he netted twice.
