James Rodríguez joined FC Bayern about four months ago and is on an upward trend. The Colombian recently turned in strong displays in training and especially in the matches, scoring one goal against Leipzig and setting up two against Borussia Dortmund.
You can tell he feels more and more at ease in Munich, the cold weather notwithstanding. He missed Colombia's second friendly this week to return to the Säbener Strasse earlier. He trained in temperatures around zero, without a hat or scarf, which is unusual for a South American player.
The 26-year-old increasingly demonstrates his qualities. But what does James think off the pitch? fcbayern.com met the forward to talk about his leisure time activities, his impressions of the Bundesliga and his goals for this season.
James Rodríguez interviewed
James, how do you feel in Munich? What do you like best about the city and your new club?
James: "It's a new life, I'm satisfied and pleased. It's a bit quieter here than in the other countries where I've played. You're able to have a walk in peace. FC Bayern are a great club and are always in the race for big titles."
The FC Bayern fans have seen you out on the pitch, but what do you do in your leisure time?
"I'm a quiet person, and I like to be at home, where I'm left in peace. I like to watch TV series, especially now when it's cold. I'm currently watching the series Vikings and American Horror Story. Of course I also like to play on the PlayStation, FIFA, when I have the time."
Have you played against your team-mates yet?
"Unfortunately not, we absolutely have to arrange it."
Do you have special rituals before you take to the pitch?
"No, I don't have any rituals, I don't believe in that. But I do believe in God. God has been very important to me since my childhood, so I thank him every time I score a goal."
Your social media channels reveal you like to dance. What's your favourite music?
"I like basically everything, but especially Salsa and Reggaeton. We feel constantly happy in Colombia and like to dance. It makes us feel good."
Are you learning German? What can you tell us?
"For example Danke, Bitte, Guten Morgen and Gute Nacht. Alles gut. I'm slowly feeling more familiar but it's tough."
You've been playing in Germany for around four months now. What are your first impressions of the Bundesliga?
"The focus is more on the physical and tactical part. But I always say, if you're technically skilled, if you play well, football is the same all over the world."
What can the fans expect of James? What are your goals this season?
"I want to win titles and prove myself out on the pitch. I'll give it everything, until the last minute. I want to win titles with this great club."
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