'Like Napoli signing Diego Maradona' - James Rodriguez to be treated as a 'Formula 1 driver' by Rayo Vallecano after ex-Real Madrid star's surprise La Liga return

Rayo Vallecano completed a major coup with the signing of Rodriguez, who joined the La Liga outfit on Monday after leaving Sao Paulo in the summer. The Colombian playmaker was named MVP at the recent Copa America and brings a wealth of high-level experience to Estadio de Vallecas, having won two titles with Real Madrid.

Rodriguez turned 33 in July but he showed he's still got plenty to offer at the Copa America, where he led Colombia to the final with one goal and six assists. The playmaker's club career has stalled in recent years, with injuries playing a part, but a return to Spain affords him the opportunity to continue playing at a high level. Presa explained how the transfer came about and compared it to Napoli's signing of Maradona in 1984.

"I called him a month ago, directly," Presa told El Partidazo de COPE. "We have a mutual friend in Radamel Falcao. We saw what the possibilities were, and though at first it was difficult, in the end we achieved something historic for Rayo Vallecano: bringing in the MVP of the Copa America. We are a humble but ambitious team, like Napoli when they signed Maradona. Since then nothing like this had been achieved."

Rodriguez hasn't played since the Copa America final on July 14 and Presa insisted that he won't be rushed back due to his importance to the club, comparing him to a Formula 1 driver. "Five weeks have passed since he played in the Copa América final and he's been on holiday; we're not going to risk his season by risking one game," Presa added. "He has to be handled carefully, he's like a Formula 1 driver, he has to last the whole season."

The former Everton player will hope to make his debut for his new club as quickly as possible. Vallecano's first match after the international break against Osasuna on September 15 appears to represent an ideal fixture to make his maiden appearance.