Signed in 2020 after leaving Real Madrid, James joined Everton at Carlo Ancelotti’s request, having previously worked with the Italian at Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. His technical quality and passing range offered supporters a glimpse of the playmaker who had dazzled at the 2014 World Cup.
But Ancelotti’s exit changed the landscape. James says Rafael Benítez quickly made clear that he was not part of the new manager’s plans, leaving the Colombian to reportedly move to Al-Rayyan in Qatar. The transfer fee was not disclosed.
The timing also worked against him. Pandemic restrictions meant Everton supporters largely never saw James play at Goodison Park, depriving the relationship of the usual matchday connection.
James’s version is significant because it frames the move as a decision made around him, rather than by him. He believed he could have remained at Everton for several more seasons, but the arrival of a new manager ended that possibility almost immediately.
His memories also include a warmer side of his brief stay. Recalling an encounter with a supporter, James said: “O cara me viu, veio até mim e disse que tinha algo para mim. Ele me deu uma garrafa de vinho tinto. Claro que eu bebi em casa.”
That small story reflects the affection he felt from parts of the fanbase, even though his Everton chapter was remarkably short.
Now reportedly with Minnesota United, James turns his attention to Colombia’s World Cup meeting with Switzerland. His influence may no longer be built on explosive athleticism, but his vision, set-piece quality and experience remain valuable in a knockout setting.
The next storyline is whether James can give Colombia the decisive moments Everton supporters once hoped to see at Goodison Park - and finally turn another short chapter into a lasting memory.