Colombia national team captain James Rodriguez has signed a short-term contract with Minnesota United ahead of the 2026 World Cup, the MLS club announced on Friday.
The 34-year-old former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich midfielder, who last played for Mexican side Leon, has a guaranteed contract until June with a team option until December.
“I am very happy with this new chapter in my life,” said Rodriguez. “I hope to be my best so that I can bring joy to this city and to all the people who put their trust in me.
“I’m looking forward to meeting all the passionate Minnesota fans because I’m also a passionate player who wants to give everything on the field and always win.”
The Loons went 16-8 with 10 ties last year, finishing fourth in the Western Conference and falling in the quarterfinals of the playoffs.
“James is a player whose quality, vision and experience at the highest level of football are undisputed,” said Khaled El-Ahmad, United’s director of football and sporting director.
«We are excited to add his creativity and football intelligence to our group. At the same time, this move is about collective strength – not about pinning everything on one individual.»
“We believe that James can add an important dimension to the team within our structure and culture.”
Published on February 6, 2026

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/National-Donut-day-060426-tout-bcd7831f84064d26af4fd9ee3a061bb5.jpg?w=238&resize=238,178&ssl=1)


:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/National-Donut-day-060426-tout-bcd7831f84064d26af4fd9ee3a061bb5.jpg?w=100&resize=100,75&ssl=1)

:max_bytes(150000):strip_icc():format(jpeg)/Prince-Andrew-060426-1-dd36954847684f0a8c7397c959578d8f.jpg?w=100&resize=100,75&ssl=1)

