James Rodríguez Set to Join Minnesota United in MLS Move: Sources
Colombian football star James Rodríguez is nearing an agreement to join Minnesota United in Major League Soccer (MLS), according to reliable sources. Initial discussions commenced earlier this week, and the arrangements are reportedly moving forward smoothly. Rodríguez is expected to join the club on a non-designated player deal.
Background on James Rodríguez
At 34 years old, Rodríguez has remained a free agent since parting ways with Club León on December 31. During January, he trained independently in Colombia, as he sought a new opportunity. Previously, he had been linked to various clubs across MLS, Ecuador, and Argentina.
Previous Club Opportunities
- Rodríguez was considered for a move to Millonarios, yet financial constraints ruled out that option.
- His absence from competitive matches raised concerns about his fitness ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
World Cup Aspirations
Colombia aims to make a significant impact at the upcoming World Cup, and Rodríguez’s role will be crucial. He played a pivotal part in Colombia’s 2014 World Cup journey, where he secured the Golden Boot as the tournament’s top scorer.
Career Highlights
- Transfer to Real Madrid in 2014 for over $100 million following his success at the World Cup.
- Named the best midfielder in La Liga during the 2014-2015 season.
- Contributed 37 goals and 42 assists while at Real Madrid.
- Had productive stints with Bayern Munich, where he was managed by notable coaches such as Carlo Ancelotti.
Transition to Minnesota United
Rodríguez will join Minnesota United, which had a commendable 2025 season, achieving 58 points and 16 victories. They reached the Western Conference semifinals for the second straight year. Cameron Knowles, the current head coach, will face the challenge of utilizing Rodríguez effectively within the team’s playing style.
Playing Style and Future Prospects
Historically, Rodríguez excelled as a creative midfielder and goal-scoring threat. However, recent years have seen him adopt a more central, deep-lying playmaker role. His performance has been inhibited by injuries and stamina issues, yet his strategic positioning around the opponent’s goal remains advantageous.
Set-Piece Contributions
Rodríguez has proven to be effective in set-piece situations, notably during the 2024 Copa America, where he achieved six assists, including four from dead-ball scenarios. This skill aligns well with Minnesota United’s strengths as one of the league’s most effective set-piece teams.
Conclusion
As Rodríguez prepares for his move to Minnesota United, his primary objective remains clear: to assist Colombia in exceeding their previous quarterfinal performance in the summer World Cup. The alignment between his career ambitions and the team’s objectives for 2026 will be closely scrutinized in the coming months.
