James Rodríguez is leaving Minnesota United after a short and quiet stint in Major League Soccer. His last game with the Loons will be this Wednesday against the Colorado Rapids. From there, the Colombian playmaker will head straight to the national team camp to prepare for the 2026 World Cup.
The move was expected. Minnesota never saw this as a long-term partnership. For them, it was a chance to bring in a global name and sell a few jerseys. For James, it was a way to stay match-fit before the tournament that could define the final chapter of his career.
Retirement rumors: fact or fiction?
Reports from outlets like The Athletic and journalists close to MLS have suggested that James might retire after the World Cup. The idea gained traction when word spread that he had no plans to return to the Colombian league or sign with another club. But James himself has pushed back hard.
In an interview with Apple TV, he said: “Those reports out of Colombia saying I’ll retire after the World Cup were made for views and likes. I’m the only person who knows how long I’ll play. I’ll announce it well in advance. I think I have a few years left. Those reports are false.”
Still, the uncertainty lingers. At 34, James is no longer the young star who lit up the 2014 World Cup in Brazil. His body has been through a lot — injuries, loan moves, bench stints at Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and Everton. But his left foot remains one of the most dangerous weapons in the game, and Colombia will need it if they want to go deep in the tournament.
A brief and quiet stay in Minnesota
James’s time in Minnesota was short on drama but also short on minutes. He made only four appearances in the current MLS season, with just one start. He did show flashes of his quality — two assists in his last match against Austin FC — but it was never going to be a long-term project.
For Minnesota, it was a low-risk deal. For James, it was a way to stay in rhythm. Now that it’s over, his full attention is on the World Cup. The Cafeteros captain knows that this might be his last chance to lead his country on the biggest stage.
Colombian fans are watching closely. Many see this World Cup as the final opportunity to enjoy James at his best. Whether he retires after or keeps playing, every minute he plays in the tournament could be one of the last from one of the most gifted number 10s Latin America has produced in decades.
For now, James is focused on one thing: making sure Colombia’s run in 2026 is memorable. His club future can wait. The World Cup cannot.
