For the first time this season, James Rodriguez started as Ancelotti's best XI and Colombian had an outstanding performance at Gelsenkirchen. Bayern beat Schalke and moved at the top of the Bundesliga. Ancelotti came under fire after Bayern were beaten 2-0 by Hoffenheim 11 days ago in the third Bundesliga game of the season. Luckily for Ancelotti, Colombian has been in the mood and save him from the fire of Uli Hoeness, and once again improved his class. James moved to Bayern Munich this summer on a two-year loan from Real Madrid and he played a key role in his first league start.
He scored one goal and had a hand in both the other goals.
James outstanding performance
James was involved in the first Robert Lewandowski goal from the penalty after Schalke defender Naldo handling the ball in his own box. Just four minutes later, Corentin Tolisso assists James Rodriguez for his first Bundesliga goal and Colombian doubled Bayern's lead. In the second half, James lofted a delightful pass into the box which was met by Arturo Vidal with a perfect volley past Schalke keeper Ralf Fahrmann. Ancelotti will be thrilled with Rodriguez's display at the Veltins Arena. The 26-year-old who has recently returned from an injury is now Man Of The Match.
Colombian on scoring his first Bundesliga goal
In a recent interview, James said: "The goal gave me confidence and I started playing more relaxed", the 26-year-old said afterward. "I was already having a very good game and the goal helped me as well. I want to help the team score goals and give assists to my team-mates".
Bayern without Manuel Neuer and Arjen Robben
Bayern Munich goalkeeper, Manuel Neuer's injury is a recurrence of the hairline fracture in his left foot that he picked up during the Champions League match back in April. The 31-year-old underwent successful surgery on Tuesday, which means he's out of action until January. Man in charge, Karl Heinz Rummenigge said that he is very disappointed for Neuer's injury but the team must go on and continue winning row.
Manuel will be back stronger than ever in January 2018, until then, Bayern counting on Sven Ulreich and his miracles. Meanwhile, winger Arjen Robben, who scored in the 4-0 win over Mainz, is suffering from illness. Robben has already started with training and will be ready for Bayern's next match against Wolfsburg on Friday night at Allianz Arena. Bayern needs all three points from this upcoming match, can James Rodriguez be that Ancelotti's X-factor once again?
