Official: Ex-Real Madrid star James Rodriguez joins Minnesota United

Tom Weber

• 6 Feb 2026 12:07 CST
• 4 min read

News

Colombia superstar James Rodriguez has officially completed his surprising move to Minnesota United.

The former Real Madrid attacker has been unveiled as a new player for the Loons, joining on a deal that initially runs until the summer, when Rodriguez will captain Colombia at the World Cup.

Should the 34-year-old prove a successful signing, Minnesota will have the option to extend his stay in the Twin Cities until the end of the Major League Soccer season in December. This option can also be triggered by the player.

Crucially, despite his superstar status, Rodriguez will not occupy a Designated Player (DP) spot, so his arrival will not cause any roster upheaval at Minnesota, who already have three DPs.

Rodriguez has joined on a free transfer after leaving Club Leon when his contract expired at the turn of the year. His move to the frigid cold of Minnesota continues his strange career, which has taken him to Germany, England, Qatar, Brazil, Greece and Mexico since leaving Real Madrid.

Rodriguez unveiled at Timberwolves game

According to The Athletic, Rodriguez will sit courtside at the NBA game between the Minnesota Timberwolves and the New Orleans Pelicans after his introductory press conference. His appearance at the match will be part of his "grand unveiling."

Even though he has only joined on a short-term deal, he could prove a transformative signing for Minnesota. He is easily the most high-profile player the Loons have signed since joining MLS in 2017.

Rodriguez will share a locker room with compatriots Jefferson Diaz and forward Mauricio Gonzalez, who couldn't be more excited to play alongside the 34-year-old.

"The news about James changed my mindset," Diaz told El Parche del Futbol earlier this week. "It would be great to share a locker room with my idol. There's a lot of excitement, my teammates are asking about him, the city is going crazy."

Rodriguez said as part of his unveiling: "I’m very happy for this new chapter in my life. I hope to be at my best so I can bring joy to this city and to all of the people who are putting their faith in me.

"I’m looking forward to meeting all of the passionate Minnesota fans because I’m also a passionate player who wants to give everything on the field and always wants to win."

Sporting director Khaled El-Ahmad added: “James is a player whose quality, vision, and experience at the highest levels of the game are unquestioned. We’re excited to add his creativity and football intelligence to our group.

"At the same time, this move is about collective strength, not about putting everything on one individual. We believe that within our structure, culture, James can add an important dimension to the team.

"Our focus is on integrating him the right way and ensuring he contributes in a way that elevates the group. We’re confident that, together, we can create something impactful for our community, club and our fans."

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