According to reports from The Athletic, Colombian football legend James Rodriguez is preparing to hang up his boots for good. The 34-year-old playmaker is expected to announce his retirement from professional football immediately following his participation with the Colombian national team in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The End of the MLS Chapter
Currently playing for Minnesota United in the MLS, James is set to leave the club after their next match to begin final preparations with Colombia for the tournament hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
While his contract was set to expire on June 30 with an option for an additional year, both parties have reportedly reached a mutual agreement not to trigger the extension. This decision stems from the player’s recent struggle with recurring injuries and overall health concerns.
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Health Scares and Limited Appearances
The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star faced a significant health scare last March when he was hospitalized due to a sudden heart issue. Although he recovered and returned to the pitch, his stint in the United States has been limited. James has only featured in 4 matches for Minnesota United, a factor that heavily influenced the club’s decision to part ways.
The Road to the 2026 World Cup
James, the 2014 World Cup Golden Boot winner, is reportedly exhausted by short-term stints and believes that retiring on the world’s biggest stage is the perfect conclusion to his storied career.
Colombia’s preparation for the World Cup includes friendlies against Costa Rica and Jordan. Their tournament journey will then kick off in the group stages against:
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Uzbekistan
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DR Congo
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Portugal (A highly anticipated final group clash)
A Global Legacy
Throughout his career, James Rodriguez has represented some of the world’s most prestigious clubs, including Monaco, Everton, and FC Porto. He also had a notable spell in the Middle East with Qatar’s Al-Rayyan, alongside experiences in Brazil, Mexico, and the USA.
