By Oliver Trust
BERLIN, April 3 (Xinhua) -- James Rodriguez is a topic Bayern Munich chairman Karl-Heinz Rummenigge loves to talk about ahead of his side's Champions League quarterfinal match against FC Sevilla.
The 26-year-old Columbian is not only outstandingly skillful and important for the strong team spirit but is said to be the Bavarian's driving force. Some say he, like no other in the squad, stands for Bayern's treble ambitions in 2018.
While fans talk about star striker Robert Lewandowski's goals or debate about the value of the golden agers Arjen Robben and Frank Ribery or the brilliant unconventionality of Thomas Mueller -- it is Rodriguezwho is Bayern's secret game shaper.
Bayern-coach Jupp Heynckes had good cause to call him a running machine. With an average of 11.8 kilometers per game, Rodriguezis one of the German league's best performers. He is not only the link between his team's attack and defense, but Rodriguezis everywhere.
"He is one of our best transfers in the last few years," Rummenigge commented when praising Rodriguezsignificant development "since Jupp Heynckes took over as coach." The club chairman was also thankful that former coach Carlo Ancelotti made Bayern sign him .
It was Heynckes who gave the 2014 World Cup top scorer new hope after a difficult start. Being moved from the flanks to midfield was like a new life for Rodriguez. "He was not in best shape when he came here and for the first few months. Now he is of great value," Heynckes said.
From uncertain to indispensable, things have rapidly changed for Rodriguez.
"I know my South American players. They need to feel they are appreciated," the 72-year-old emphasized.
Heynckes' people skills are famed and his handling of Rodriguezis another excellent example as is the revival of Javi Martinez.
The Spaniard plays alongside Bayern's secret play-mak ing Rodriguez in what is said to be one of the best "double sixes" in European football.
Heynckes praises Rodriguez's versatility as he "does shy away from defensive work" and at the same time "can be the man for the incisive decisive pass." Not to forget about his scoring qualities. Some people speak of Real Madrid's regret at allowing Rodriguez to leave in 2017.
As for the Champions League opponent Sevilla, Heynckes is relying on his Spanish speaking midfielders to do the job. Rodriguez , he stated, is an expert on Spanish football as is Spaniard Martinez.
"Hardly anyone else knows as much about the Spanish league as he does," said Heynckes when talking about James.
To beat an opponent of Sevilla's class, Heynckes is aware of the need for real experts. "There is no reason to underestimate a team of that quality. Look at their recent 2-2 draw against Barcelona," Rummenigge said.
One would say that should be reason enough to secure the future of a vital team member like Rodriguez in Munich. The Spanish newspaper "Marca" reported Bayern had informed Rodriguez 's owners Real Madrid that they were prepared to pay 42 million e uro for the midfielder having already paid 13 million on-loan fees in the past two years.
Like Marca, the Hamburg-based German sports magazine Sport-Bild told its readers Bayern has decided to use their buying clause.
Rummenigge answers questions about Rodriguez 's future with a broad smile on his face telling German media: "We are happy to have him here. Satisfaction couldn't be bigger, but there is no reason to hurry."
Bayern are far from considering Rodriguez 's departure, but before white smoke is seen over Bayern's roof-tops an important job needs to be done.
Rodriguez is expected to help Bayern get over their Spain trauma. "We've lost to three Spanish clubs in the last years," said Rummenigge when talking about the painful defeats against Real, Barcelona and Atletico. "It's time to add some positive chapters to our Spanish book."
