James Rodriguez's stint with Minnesota United is heading toward a premature end. The Colombian midfielder, who has struggled to make an impact in MLS, is expected to depart next week after the Loons' final matches to rejoin his national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. Multiple reports suggest the 34-year-old veteran may not return following the tournament, potentially marking the closing chapter of a decorated but recently inconsistent club career.
Rodriguez has featured in just six matches for Minnesota, including four league appearances, since arriving at the club. His most notable performance came on April 25 against LAFC, when he played 63 minutes in a 1-0 defeat. The former Real Madrid and Everton playmaker joined on a non-designated player contract, limiting his financial impact on the franchise. Minnesota had the option to extend his deal through the remainder of the season, but the decision needed to be finalized by June 1 and reportedly aligned with Rodriguez's preferences.
Brief MLS Experiment Ends Before World Cup Push
Rodriguez is scheduled to leave after Minnesota's match Wednesday against Colorado Rapids, which could represent the final club fixture of his career. The midfielder now turns his focus toward Colombia's Copa America campaign, where he is expected to serve as a central creative force. Reports from Colombian media indicate Rodriguez is contemplating retirement once the World Cup concludes, signaling the likely end of an era for one of South America's most talented midfielders.
This abbreviated MLS experience continues a troubling pattern for Rodriguez at club level. Since his breakthrough performance at the 2014 World Cup, he has consistently delivered for Colombia while struggling to replicate that form with European and international club sides. His career has seen him travel through multiple continents—Real Madrid, Everton, Al-Rayyan, Leon, and Rayo Vallecano—without establishing sustained success outside international football. The Minnesota stint ranks among his shortest, potentially surpassing even his six-game spell at Rayo Vallecano.
Minnesota will face Austin FC on Sunday before their final Rodriguez appearance against Colorado on Wednesday. Colombia opens their World Cup campaign on June 17 against Uzbekistan, where the midfielder's experience and playmaking will prove crucial to the team's tournament ambitions.
