James Rodríguez joins Minnesota United in MLS push towards 2026 World Cup | OneFootball

James Rodríguez has joined Minnesota United in MLS on a deal until June 2026, with an option to December 2026, aiming to be in peak shape for the next World Cup. He has been a free agent since 31 December after leaving Club León.

According to Superdeporte, the 34-year-old views the switch as a strategic step late in his career and values the geographic, climatic and competitive context, with the United States set to host the tournament alongside Canada and Mexico.

Settling in North America should help him adapt to the conditions he expects at the finals while maintaining the demands needed to remain important for Colombia. MLS is growing in visibility, investment and level, making it a useful showcase.

At Minnesota United he will take a leading role, offer dressing-room leadership and enjoy continuity, with the club banking on his experience and quality to raise their level. The contract structure lets both sides review progress before the World Cup.

This move offers stability after a run of short spells and becomes the 11th club of his career, which has included Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Everton. His left foot, vision and match-winning craft are undoubted, yet injuries, managerial changes and context have hindered sustained rhythm.

In MLS he aims to regain consistency and show he can still make the difference.

Source: Superdeporte