Zidane and James grown tired of each other (Marca)

On Thursday morning, Zinedine Zidane defined the match against Alaves as a cup final. In the afternoon, James Rodriguez was left out of the matchday squad, despite Real Madrid's various injuries.

The Colombian is going through his final days at Los Blancos in the worst way, with his desire behind closed doors after an erratic season. Zidane has grown tired of James and James has grown tired of Zidane.

It's difficult to understand the Colombian's career. He's a proper No.10 with one of the best left foots in the world who arrived at Real Madrid as a star after impressing at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

In his first few months, he lived up to expectations. It seemed as though Real Madrid had their No.10 for many years to come. No one could imagine the subsequent downfall.

His performances dropped off over time. Of the player with a goal threat, talent and inspiration was left only his famous left foot, which isn't much for a palate like the Estadio Santiago Bernabeu, which values quality as much as effort. His physical shape was deteriorating and his relationship with the fans and coaches too.

James left Madrid for Bayern Munich - another club where you have to be at your best every week. Maximum demand isn't up for negotiation. Zidane supposedly has a taste for aesthetics and quality.

James must be missing something if a coach like doesn't include him in his plans at a decisive part of the season. The Colombian disappeared recently for the game at San Mames. Luckily for him, the Bernabeu isn't welcoming fans at the moment.

It's hard to think that a player of his quality, still only 28 years old, doesn't have enough to start for an elite team. His left foot is still intact, but that's not enough at the highest level.

His problem could lie more in his head than his feet. If James does revive his career, it certainly won't be at Real Madrid.