The chapters of Zidane and James' troubled relationship Real Madrid They've never been on good terms

Zinedine Zidane's relationship with James Rodriguez shows no signs of improving anytime soon and, even after two years apart, the Colombian has returned to Real Madrid to find the Frenchman as distant as ever.

The future is uncertain for James and, while Madrid still might not sell him, it has become clear that Zidane doesn't really want him at the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu.

Zidane's 2016 arrival

James was a substitute for the 5-1 win over Sporting Gijon. Zidane sent both him and Jese to warm up at the break and, as the second half got underway, Jese came on but the Colombian returned to the bench. The coach wasn't happy as he thought the player was still warming up and, when he noticed, he scolded the player for his attitude.

Copa America 2016 statements

After scoring for Colombia and playing 90 minutes in the group stages of the Copa America, James spoke about how he wanted to play until he couldn't play anymore for his country, but Madrid weren't happy. He took part in the Centennial Copa America without having been able to play in the Champions League final and Zidane showed his displeasure.

The 2016 Club World Cup

Again overlooked in the final, James was far from pleased and he didn't hide that fact. "I can't assure you that I'll stay," he said. "I have offers and seven days to consider and I want to play."

"Your mother's shell"

On April 5, 2017, Madrid beat Leganes and James was into his final moments at the club. It was impossible for him to hide his frustration by this point and after scoring, he was the first to be withdrawn. As he left the pitch, his anger was clear and there was no going back from there.

Zidane's non-denial

Everyone knew there were problems between the two, but Zidane kept insisting he had "nothing against James" and expressed his belief that he's a "great player".

Another Champions League final without participation

The final in Cardiff saw him left out of the squad altogether. After the win, he went on the pitch with his daughter to celebrate and it became clear that his future lay away from the club.

Greetings from Bavaria

Six months into his spell with Bayern Munich, enjoying a change of scenery and colours, James was asked about his relationship with Zidane. His response wasn't harsh though, explaining that "each coach has their preferences and I wasn't in his, even though I scored and assisted when I played".