James David Rodríguez Rubio; (born 12 July 1991), usually known as James Rodríguez or simply James, is a Colombian footballer who plays for Spanish club Real Madrid and the Colombian national team. Playing either on the wing or in an attacking midfield role, Rodríguez is commonly ranked as one of the best young players in the world. He has received praise for his technique, vision and playmaking skills, and has been referred to as the successor to his compatriot Carlos Valderrama.