James Rodriguez dad: Zinedine Zidane appointment 'bad' for Real Madrid star

After initially impressing under Carlo Ancelotti in 2014-15, James has had a difficult second season at the Bernabeu.

On Friday, Marca published statistics highlighting how things have got even trickier since Zidane replaced Rafa Benitez at the start of January.

The Spanish publication says James played 718 minutes across 14 matches which he was available for under Benitez – 57%. However, that figure has dropped to 52% under Zidane.

Rodriguez senior told Marca:

"I think it is normal, football's like this," he added. "Injuries play a big part, and make it harder for a footballer to maintain his level.

"[Ancelotti and Zidane] are two very different managers and the fact that he isn't playing at the moment doesn't mean anything, but it's obvious that change of manager was bad for him."

Speaking of the young player's ability, he said "His sacrifice, humility and discipline has put him where he is now.

“Of course [he can still improve]. James has yet to give all the quality that he has as a player.

“He’s a young player who is always picking up experience. He has to give even more.

“I’d advise him to be patient, wise and adequately prepared for when he gets his chance... he must wait for his time to come.”