Colombian star James Rodriguez has joined Minnesota United in a short-term deal, with his visa approved just days before the MLS season begins. The 33-year-old playmaker, a free agent since January, signed with the Loons to prepare for the 2026 World Cup, his fourth with Colombia.
Rodriguez, who was named player of the tournament at the 2024 Copa America, said: “I’ve been in top leagues, but I wanted to play in this league. When the chance arose with this great club, things were progressing a bit slowly, but it happened. Both sides made an effort, and when a club trusts you, you have to give it your all so everyone feels good. That’s why I’m here, to help and hopefully win things.”
Minnesota chief soccer officer Khaled El-Ahmad described the signing as a “unique opportunity” to boost the squad, noting that Rodriguez sought a team with strong performance, top physio facilities, and calm surroundings. The Loons have missed the postseason only once since 2019 and were named MLS medical staff of the year in 2025.
Rodriguez’s arrival comes amid Operation Metro Surge, a federal immigration operation in Minnesota that has caused two confirmed deaths. Despite this, the club secured the player’s discovery rights last autumn and completed the deal after his departure from Mexican side Club Leon.
El-Ahmad said: “If this was 2024 or maybe even 2025, I’m not sure we would be ready as a club for that potential addition to our culture. I’m so confident in the coaching staff now, in the club itself, that we’ve been evolving over the last 24 months heading into year three. I’m very comfortable with the core group of players, that [Rodriguez] is an exciting cherry on the top.”
