In a dramatic last-minute development, Colombian soccer icon James Rodriguez has finally been granted his visa, with clearance arriving just three days before the start of the new Major League Soccer season. Minnesota United, who signed the high-profile midfielder to a short-term contract earlier this month, confirmed the news on Tuesday after reports from Spain had suggested Rodriguez was still without documentation.
Visa Confirmation Ends Pre-Season Uncertainty
The confirmation was provided directly to Daily Mail, verifying that Rodriguez's visa and all relevant documents were officially received on Tuesday. This crucial approval means the 34-year-old is now fully cleared to both practice and play for his new team, Minnesota United. His debut could come as soon as Saturday when the team faces Austin in their first game of the season.
Background of Immigration Tensions in Minneapolis
This visa approval arrives against a backdrop of significant unrest in Minneapolis. Widespread protests erupted in the city just weeks ago following a controversial immigration crackdown. The protests were sparked by the fatal shootings of two individuals: Renee Good, a mother of three, and Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse. Both were killed by immigration agents last month, creating a tense atmosphere around immigration matters in the region.
Rodriguez's High-Profile Move and Contract Details
James Rodriguez represents the most prominent signing in Minnesota United's history to date. The deal he signed earlier this month is structured as a short-term, guaranteed contract running through June, coinciding with the league's pause for the World Cup. Rodriguez will occupy an international roster spot, and the agreement includes a club option to extend through the remainder of the MLS season until December.
This move provides the Colombian veteran with an ideal platform to ramp up his preparation for the upcoming World Cup this summer. Rodriguez, who stands at 5-foot-11, first captured global attention at the 2014 World Cup, where he won the Golden Boot as the tournament's leading scorer with six goals in just five matches.
A Storied Career Across Europe and Beyond
Following his World Cup heroics, Rodriguez joined Spanish powerhouse Real Madrid, where he spent six seasons. His career also included notable stints with Bayern Munich in Germany's Bundesliga and Everton in the English Premier League. In recent years, he has played for various clubs including Olympiacos in Greece, Sao Paulo in Brazil, Rayo Vallecano in Spain, and Club León in Mexico since 2023.
On the international stage, Rodriguez recently helped lead Colombia to the Copa America final in 2024, marking the country's first appearance in the final in 23 years. He has amassed an impressive record of 31 goals in 122 career international matches for Colombia.
Rodriguez's Enthusiasm for New Chapter
Earlier this month, Rodriguez expressed his excitement about joining Minnesota United. 'I'm very happy for this new chapter in my life,' he stated. 'I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me. I'm looking forward to meeting all of the passionate Minnesota fans because I'm also a passionate player who wants to give everything on the field and always wants to win.'
With his visa now secured, Rodriguez can focus entirely on integrating with his new team and preparing for what promises to be a significant season both for Minnesota United and his World Cup aspirations.
