James Rodriguez is God's gift to Bayern Munich: Coach Heynckes

James Rodriguez is on loan at Bayern from Real Madriid

Unloved at Real Madrid, yet declared a godsend by Bayern Munich, James Rodriguez has rebooted his stuttering career in Bavaria and is set to shine again in the Champions League. In his preferred attacking midfield role, Rodriguez is set to face Besiktas tonight in the first leg of the Last-16 tie at Munich's Allianz Arena. In Germany, the Colombia international has rediscovered the form which saw him light up the 2014 World Cup and finish as the competition's top scorer.

Bayern Munich coach Heynckes

Working alongside veteran head coach Jupp Heynckes has rejuvenated Rodriguez after three challenging seasons at Real, where he fell out of favour under Zinedine Zidane. His fortunes took off in Munich last October when Heynckes replaced Carlo Ancelotti. "He's playing in a position he never played at Real Madrid," said Heynckes. "In Spain, he was playing on the left wing or right wing, but I'm playing him in an attacking middle position. Here he is like a fish in water." Rodriguez was instrumental when Bayern beat PSG 3-1 in December to avenge the 3-0 away defeat which cost Ancelotti his job.

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