Real Madrid midfielder James Rodriguez has hailed Rafa Benitez as “the one who calls the shots” after a promising start to the season.
The 55-year-old began his reign at the Santiago Bernabeu with a pre-season triumph in the International Champions Cup, before laying down the gauntlet with a 5-0 demolition of Real Betis in La Liga last week.
“I think [Benitez] is the one who calls the shots,” the Colombian told AS.
“I've always kept my head down and known I must always train well and that I must always take my chances whenever they arise.
“I've always tried to give everything, whenever, wherever. I always try to leave everything on the pitch, play well and help my teammates, so don't think I've changed at all.
“I was 19 [when I made my Colombia debut], now I'm older and that helps when it comes to gaining experience and winning matches.
“I always want to win. Wherever they are in the world, Real Madrid always want to win, and I try to help them [achieve this objective] in the form of goals and assists.
“I have a very good relationship [with Cristiano Ronaldo], but I also do with several others [at Madrid]. I'm happy in Madrid.”
