The Real Madrid boss says it would not be fair to expect the Colombia international to fulfil the same role as the former Blancos star
Real Madrid coach Carlo Ancelotti says he cannot expect James Rodriguez to play like Angel Di Maria did when he was at the club.
Di Maria left the Spanish capital in the summer to join Manchester United for €75 million, while Rodriguez came in from Monaco for €81m.
But Ancelotti says it is unfair to expect the Colombia international to fulfil the same role.
“James is not Di Maria,” the 55-year-old told reporters. “He is a different player with different qualities.
“I’m going to use him for that reason, not because I expect the same from him.
“Both players have different technical characteristics. I’m happy with him and he is focused on the job he has to do. He’s doing well and will get better,” he added.
The midfielder was rested for the Blancos’ last game, a 2-1 win over Ludogorets in the Champions League, but Ancelotti confirmed that he will star in their next fixture – in La Liga against Athletic Bilbao on Sunday.