James Rodríguez Joins Minnesota United Ahead of World Cup
Colombian star James Rodríguez has officially joined Minnesota United in Major League Soccer (MLS) as of Friday. The playmaker signed a short-term contract that extends only until the 2026 World Cup, which will take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The club’s announcement confirmed his contract is guaranteed through June 2026, coinciding with the start of the tournament.
Contract Details and Future Opportunities
The agreement allows Minnesota United the option to extend Rodríguez’s contract through the end of the 2026 MLS season, which concludes with the league’s final match in December. Rodríguez expressed enthusiasm about joining the team during the presentation at Allianz Field in Saint Paul, Minnesota. “It’s true that I’ve played in great clubs, but I wanted this league. I wanted to play here,” he stated.
Impact on His Career
Rodríguez’s move to MLS closes a chapter of uncertainty for the Colombian player. With less than five months before the North American World Cup, many were concerned about his lack of match fitness after leaving Club León in Mexico last November. There, he scored five goals and provided nine assists over 34 appearances in 2025, helping Colombia qualify for the World Cup.
Previous Clubs and Experience
- Real Madrid
- Bayern Munich
- Everton
- Sao Paulo
- Rayo Vallecano
- Olympiacos
- Al-Rayyan
Since departing León, Rodríguez was linked to clubs in Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, and the United States before finally signing with Minnesota United. The franchise, established in 2017, has yet to win an MLS title. Rodríguez’s addition represents a significant move for the league, which has attracted several international stars in recent years, including Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez.
Performance Expectations
His arrival could revitalize Minnesota United, who reached the semifinals of the Western Conference but lack star players. Rodríguez must prove he is in optimal physical condition, as injuries have hindered his recent performances. Since leaving top-tier European football in 2021, he has struggled to maintain consistency at various clubs across multiple continents.
National Team Contributions
Rodríguez remains an essential figure for the Colombian national team. He is their second all-time leading scorer, with 31 goals, and a steadfast starting member. His performance in the MLS will be closely monitored by Colombia’s head coach, Néstor Lorenzo, as they prepare for their return to the World Cup, having missed out in 2022.
