Carlo Ancelotti: James Rodriguez cannot play like Angel Di Maria

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti with James Rodriguez

Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti admitted that new signing James Rodriguez cannot play like Angel Di Maria.

Los Blancos bought the Colombian World Cup star for close to £71m this summer and sold Di Maria to Manchester United for £59.7m.

Rodriguez did not play a part in Real Madrid’s Champions League victory over Ludogorets. But according to Ancelotti, he would be available for the La Liga fixture against Athletic Bilbao.

Both players have scored two goals and grabbed two assists this season.

Rodriguez and Di Maria have different qualities: Ancelotti

Ancelotti said that fans couldn’t expect Rodriguez to play like Di Maria did in the past few seasons.

“James is not Di Maria,” he said.

“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.”

The Italian boss also spoke about how Rodriguez is doing well in spite of criticism aimed at his performances.

“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.