Minnesota United has signed James Rodriguez from Colombia to a short-term contract. This move aims to keep the national team captain fit ahead of the World Cup this summer.
Rodriguez, 34, is signed through June, with an option to extend until December. The financial details of the contract were not revealed.
Colombia will start its World Cup journey on June 17 against Uzbekistan in Mexico City.
Khaled El-Ahmad, Minnesota’s chief soccer officer and sporting director, stated, “James possesses exceptional quality, vision, and experience. His creativity and football intelligence will benefit our team. However, this addition is about collective strength rather than relying solely on one player.”
El-Ahmad further emphasized the importance of integrating Rodriguez into the team in a way that enhances overall performance, saying they aim to create a positive impact for the community and the club.
Rodriguez previously won the Golden Boot in the 2014 World Cup, scoring six goals and helping Colombia reach the quarterfinals.
Throughout his career, he has scored 127 goals and provided 161 assists in 516 club matches, playing for various top-tier teams like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, FC Porto, and Everton FC.
In the recently concluded 2025-26 season, he scored five goals in 34 matches with Club Leon in LIGA MX.
“I’m thrilled to start this new chapter,” Rodriguez said. “I aim to perform at my best to bring joy to this city and to those who believe in me.”
“I look forward to connecting with the passionate Minnesota supporters. I am a dedicated player who strives to give everything on the field and aims for victory.”