Minnesota United confirmed on Friday that 34-year-old Colombian attacking midfielder James Rodriguez has joined the club on a free transfer. The contract runs until June 30, 2026, with the club having an option to extend for another six months.

The official announcement also stated that James Rodriguez will wear the number 10 jersey at Minnesota United.

James Rodriguez has been unemployed since leaving León in January, during which time he was linked with several clubs in MLS, Ecuadorian Primera División, Argentine Primera División, and Colombian Primera División. Regarding his decision to join Minnesota United, he said after signing the contract: "I am incredibly excited for this new chapter in my life. I hope to perform at my best and bring joy to this city and everyone who trusts me. I look forward to meeting all the passionate Minnesota fans, because I am also a passionate player. Whenever I'm on the pitch, I will give my all and always crave victory."

Minnesota United's Chief Football Officer and Sporting Director, Khalid Ahmed, stated, "James's ability, vision, and experience in top-level competitions are beyond question. We are very much looking forward to him bringing creativity and football intelligence to the team. This signing is also aimed at improving the overall strength of the team, rather than relying on a single player to carry everything."

“We believe that James can bring multi-dimensional improvements to the team within our existing system and culture. Our focus is on how to integrate him into the team in the right way and ensure that his contributions enhance the team’s overall strength. We firmly believe that by working together, we can have a positive impact on our community, the club, and our fans.”

James Rodriguez began his professional career in 2006 with Envigado, subsequently playing for Banfield, Porto, Monaco, Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Everton, Raijan, Olympiacos, São Paulo, Rayo Vallecano, and León, among others. He has won 25 club titles to date, including one Argentine Champions League title, one Europa League title, three Portuguese Champions League titles, one Portuguese Cup title, three Portuguese Super Cup titles, two Champions League titles, two La Liga titles, two Club World Cup titles, two UEFA Super Cup titles, one Spanish Super Cup title, two Bundesliga titles, one German Cup title, two German Super Cup titles, one Brazilian Cup title, and one Brazilian Super Cup title.

As a key member of the Colombian national team, James Rodriguez's main motivation for joining Minnesota United is to prepare for this year's World Cup held in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. He has made 122 appearances for Colombia to date, scoring 31 goals and providing 41 assists.

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