World Cup 2014: Player profile - who is James Rodriguez, the Colombia attacking midfielder?
Counting down the 100 players to look out for in Brazil this summer
Your support helps us to tell the story
This election is still a dead heat, according to most polls. In a fight with such wafer-thin margins, we need reporters on the ground talking to the people Trump and Harris are courting. Your support allows us to keep sending journalists to the story.
The Independent is trusted by 27 million Americans from across the entire political spectrum every month. Unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock you out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. But quality journalism must still be paid for.
Help us keep bring these critical stories to light. Your support makes all the difference.
The World Cup in Brazil is coming into view and everyone is hoping this summer's carnival can take its place among some of the great tournaments of the past, but who will be the star of the show?
With exactly 100 days to go until things kick-off, check out our first instalment of 100 players to look out for at the competition below.
100. James Rodriguez (Colombia)
At just 22, Rodriguez is regarded as one of the finest young talents in the world. His creativity and eye for the spectacular earned him a big money move to Monaco from Porto during the summer. Able to play behind the striker or on either flank, Rodriguez will provide the ammunition for Radamel Falcao, should he recover from injury, and Jackson Martinez, making Colombia a real attacking force.
Rodriguez's hero is Colombian legend Carlos Valderrama, he of the massive blonde-afro and passing prowess. Rodriguez quickly acquired the nickname of 'El Nuevo Pibe' (the new kid) in Colombia in tribute to Valderrama, who was known as 'El Pibe' (the kid).
Did you know: Rodriguez once scored directly from a corner for Club Atletico Banfield when he was 16 years old.
Watch this goal by Rodriguez against Stade Rennes last December
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments