James Rodríguez Joins Minnesota United with 2026 World Cup in Sight

Minnesota United has signed Colombian international James Rodríguez, aiming to bolster their squad and provide the veteran playmaker a platform to regain form ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The 34-year-old signed a deal through June with a club option to extend through the end of the 2026 MLS season.

A New Chapter for the Colombian Star

Rodríguez, known for his standout performance at the 2014 World Cup, joins Minnesota United as their biggest signing to date. He expressed his desire to compete in MLS and contribute to the Loons’ success. “I am very happy about this new stage in my life,” Rodríguez said in Spanish. “I’ve played at big clubs, in good clubs, but I wanted this league. I wanted to be able to play here, and well, when the chance came to be with this great club, everything was a little slow, but it happened.”

Fitness and the World Cup

The move is strategically timed for Rodríguez, who hasn’t featured in a competitive match since November 8th with Club Léon in Liga MX. He is currently ramping up his fitness and is expected to join full training sessions after the season opener. The primary goal of this move is to gain match fitness and secure a spot in Colombia’s squad for the 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Minnesota United’s Roster Changes

Minnesota United, led by new manager Cameron Knowles, underwent significant roster changes in the offseason. The club finished fourth in the 2025 Western Conference table and brought in nine new players, including Rodríguez. Departures included 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair, who joined Inter Miami, and midfielder Robin Lod, now with the Chicago Fire.

Looking Ahead

Colombia will start their 2026 World Cup campaign against Uzbekistan on June 17th at the Estadio Azteca in Mexico City, also facing Portugal and another yet-to-be-determined team in Group K. Minnesota United fans will be eager to observe Rodríguez on the field, with the club’s home opener scheduled for February 28th against FC Cincinnati.