James Rodríguez’s stint in Major League Soccer has officially come to an end, as Minnesota United confirmed the departure of the Colombian midfielder, who is leaving the club after a six-month stint during which he never managed to establish himself as a starter, despite the anticipation his arrival in U.S. soccer had generated.
The club itself announced his departure through its official channels, where it posted a message of thanks accompanied by a photo of the player with the caption “Thank you for everything, James,” thus confirming that the Colombian is no longer part of the team.
A signing that generated excitement but didn’t live up to expectations
James Rodríguez joined Minnesota United in February 2026 as a free agent, after his contract with Club León of Liga MX had ended.
His signing was seen as one of the most notable moves in MLS.
The Colombian arrived with an extensive international resume, including UEFA Champions League titles and an outstanding career with the Colombian national team.
However, the expected performance never quite materialized.
Although he showed flashes of his technical ability, the coaching staff never gave him enough playing time to make him a regular starter.
According to the statistics from his time with Minnesota United, James Rodríguez played in eight games, started in three of them, scored no goals, and recorded two assists.
Minnesota is committed to revamping its roster
The club’s decision comes as part of a review of its roster and the use of its designated player slots.
Minnesota chose not to exercise the extension option included in the Colombian player’s contract, bringing his brief stint in MLS to an end.
Beyond his statistics, James Rodríguez made a good impression in the Minnesota United locker room.
During his time with the team, he was recognized for his professionalism, leadership, and willingness to share his experience with the team’s younger players.
James is a free agent again
With his departure from Minnesota United now confirmed, James Rodríguez is once again free to negotiate with any club interested in signing him.
His career continues to unfold in various leagues around the world.
The Colombian has played for clubs such as Porto, Monaco, Real Madrid, Everton, Al-Rayyan, Olympiacos, São Paulo, Club León, and Minnesota United,
He is establishing himself as one of the Colombian soccer players with the most international experience.
The departure was announced by the club itself
NuevaOnda.com
The Colombian national team remains his top priority
While he decides on his next destination, James remains focused on the Colombian national team, where he continues to be one of the team’s key players.
During the 2026 World Cup, he started in all five matches played by the Colombian national team.
Although he didn’t score any goals or record any assists in the tournament, he remained one of the coaching staff’s most trusted players.
A new chapter is now beginning for the midfielder, who will seek to find a new club to relaunch his career without losing sight of Colombia’s upcoming international matches.
For more information, visit NuevaOnda.com