James Rodriguez hopes to stay at Bayern Munich beyond his loan

MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 01: James Rodriguez of Bayern Munich during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid and Bayern Muenchen at the Bernabeu on May 1, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
MADRID, SPAIN - MAY 01: James Rodriguez of Bayern Munich during the UEFA Champions League Semi Final Second Leg match between Real Madrid and Bayern Muenchen at the Bernabeu on May 1, 2018 in Madrid, Spain. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)

Colombian superstar James Rodriguez hopes to remain at Bayern Munich after his loan expires at the end of next season.

Since joining on loan from Real Madrid last summer, James Rodriguez has become a key player at Bayern Munich. Despite a slow start at the club, James has enjoyed a fantastic year with the Bavarians.

James was excellent against his old side in Bayern’s recent Champions League matches against Los Blancos. His efforts, however, were not enough to push Bayern to victory.

James has been just as impressive — if not more — for Bayern Munich in the Bundesliga this season. His 7 goals and 11 assists are an impressive tally for any player, nevermind one in his first year at the club.

Fortunately for the Bayern faithful, James recently revealed his intention to stay in Munich beyond his current loan deal. Speaking with the media after his club’s win over Koln at the weekend, James opened up about his future at the club (via ESPN).

"“I’m doing very well, it’s a good league in Germany and the stadiums are packed. I arrived with a different perception.“I’m feeling good. I hope that I will stay here. I’m very happy.”"

The second part of James’ quote was given in response to a question asking about his future at Bayern Munich. The Colombian held nothing back, confirming his desire to remain in Bavaria for the long term.

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He was brought to the club by former manager Carlo Ancelotti. The Italian had worked with him previously — and to great effect — at Real Madrid. This was easily the most beneficial thing Carlo did in his time at Bayern.

After Ancelotti was sacked, many questioned how James would fit in at Bayern. In stepped Jupp Heynckes, though, who transformed James into an all new player and made him one of the most important men in the squad.

Impending manager Niko Kovac must surely have similar plans for James after seeing how crucial he has been for Jupp Heynckes. No matter what formation Kovac plans on using, expect James to be a big part of his tactical approach.

Although he may have been brought in to help Bayern Munich win the Champions League, it is not at all his fault that Bayern failed to reach the final this season. He gave 100 percent against his former club in the semi-finals and had a hand in half the goals Bayern scored across the two legs.

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James Rodriguez has reignited his career at Bayern Munich. He seems to be loving his time both on and off the pitch. Unless something drastic occurs between now and the end of next season, Bayern will definitely use their option to make his loan deal permanent and keep him at the club on a solid, long-term deal.