Former Real Madrid winger looks back on time at the club – ‘I took Bale’s place’ | OneFootball

Former Real Madrid winger Jese Rodriguez recently shared his thoughts with AS about his time at the club.

Now 32 years old, Jese played the 2024/25 season in Malaysia for Johor Darul Ta’zim and ended the campaign with two trophies.

When asked how he felt about his Madrid years, Jese said, “I enjoyed it a lot. The heavyweights helped me a lot.

“They were great players, and we also won titles. When you win titles with the best team in the world, you feel things you’ve never felt before.”

Relationship with Ronaldo

Talking about his relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, Jese explained, “We lost contact some time ago, but I’m sure that if we see each other or I write to him, we’ll talk.

“Sergio Ramos, the Churu, is the one I still have the best relationship with.”

Jese had a good relationship with Ronaldo. (Photo by Alex Caparros/Getty Images)

He also recalled the funny nicknames they shared. It is said that Ronaldo was called the ‘bug’ and Jese was called the ‘little bug’.

“That’s true. He liked it and I liked it too. Cristiano called me every day (laughs). At that time, I was competing with Bale. One day he played, another day I played… until I got injured.”

Thoughts on Xabi Alonso and CWC

When asked if Xabi Alonso can succeed as a coach at Real Madrid, Jese replied, “The problem is that people want results now.

“You have to give people time. It’s not that easy. Xabi comes with a different system and different methods.

“Plus, he has to impose his stamp on the heavyweights. They have to believe in him and give him time.”

Jese could not fulfil his potential. (Photo by Denis Doyle/Getty Images)

Jese also shared his views on the Club World Cup, saying, “I watch a lot of football; I love it. You can never rule out Real Madrid, but there are probably other stronger teams.

“I hope they win. You have to keep in mind that the players are coming off a long season, it’s hot, the schedules are complicated… It’s not easy to play. I like the competition.”

Lastly, when asked if he felt disrespected for not reaching the level many expected of him, Jese said honestly, “It’s divided, I think. There are people who respect me and people who don’t. I’ve felt disrespect and also praise.

“Those who know me know what I’m like, as a player and as a person, and the others don’t keep me awake at night.

“Every player has their own career. I haven’t changed because I scored 15 goals and took Bale’s place before, nor because I’m in a different position now… I’m the same,” he added.