Minnesota United announced on Friday the signing of Colombian international forward James Rodríguez for the duration of this summer’s World Cup.
Rodríguez will not be classified as a Designated Player, and the agreement is temporary, extending through the World Cup, with an option for the club to retain him until December 2026.
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The 34-year-old Rodríguez had been without a club since December, following the expiration of his contract with Liga MX team León. Consequently, he has been seeking a new team to maintain his form ahead of the World Cup.
“James is a player whose quality, vision, and experience at the highest levels of the game are beyond question. We are thrilled to incorporate his creativity and football intelligence into our squad. Simultaneously, this decision is about collective strength rather than relying solely on one individual,” stated Minnesota sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad.
“We are confident that within our structure and culture, James can provide a significant contribution to the team. Our aim is to integrate him effectively and ensure he enhances the group. We believe that, together, we can make a meaningful impact for our community, club, and supporters.”
Minnesota aims to adopt a more expansive playing style under new manager Cameron Knowles, and Rodríguez’s creativity would support this objective. His proficiency in set pieces would also bolster what was a strong area for Minnesota last season.
The conclusion of his time with León marked another phase in what has been a peripatetic club career in recent years.
“I am very pleased to embark on this new chapter in my life,” Rodríguez expressed. “I aspire to perform at my best to bring joy to this city and to all those who have faith in me. I am eager to connect with the passionate fans of Minnesota because I, too, am a passionate player who aims to give my all on the field and always strives to win.”
Since his two-year loan from 2017 to 2019 with Bayern Munich, Rodríguez has played for Everton, Al Rayyan, Olympiacos, São Paulo, Rayo Vallecano, and León. Last season, he recorded three goals and two assists in 14 matches with the Mexican club.
However, it is on the international stage where Rodríguez continues to excel.
He earned the Golden Ball at the 2024 Copa América, netting one goal and providing six assists while guiding Colombia to the final, where they were narrowly defeated by Argentina, 1-0.
In total, Rodríguez has made 122 appearances for Colombia, scoring 31 goals. He is anticipated to be Colombia’s primary attacking option at this summer’s FIFA World Cup. He previously secured the Golden Boot at the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, scoring six goals and contributing two assists during Colombia’s journey to the quarterfinals.
Rodríguez began his professional career in Colombia with Envigado before transferring to Argentine club Banfield in 2008. He has since played for some of the most prestigious clubs globally, including Porto, AS Monaco, and Real Madrid.
