On Feb. 6, 2026, Minnesota United announced the signing of attacking midfielder,
captain of the Colombian national football team, and legendary 2014 Golden Boot winner
James Rodríguez. His contract guarantees him a spot on the team through June 2026, with an added club option through December 2026 if he chooses to utilize it.

Rodríguez joining Minnesota United could prove to be the decisive factor that the club needs. Having been plagued by instability the past offseason with losing their coach, reshuffling their roster, and questions about their competitive direction, the veteran’s leadership, experience, and technical skill could help stabilize the club and elevate them to greater heights.

Even at 34 years old, with injuries having dimmed the explosiveness of his prime, Rodríguez’s on-field creativity remains at its very peak. His passing vision, set-piece quality, and ability to dictate tempo give Minnesota a midfield identity that it lacked the previous season. Even if his
presence on the field every match isn’t guaranteed, that level of expertise can boost the
technical ceiling of the entire squad. Disregarding his effect on the pitch, the boost that he
brings to the locker room — where younger players are now training alongside someone who has played for some of the best clubs in the world and in multiple World Cups — is unquestionable.

His name brings with it the added benefit of global recognition to fuel the club’s fanbase, as well
as symbolically rewriting St. Paul, Minn. as a soccer destination for elite players seeking a second act. It signals that Major League Soccer (MLS), including Minnesota United FC, can be a place where world-class players can thrive. The commercial impact this signals is another bonus for Minnesota United. The club has become more visible with this signing, hopefully leading to greater attendance bumps, jersey sales, and media attention.

If Rodríguez can stay healthy enough to contribute meaningfully to the club, it may form the blueprint for the next era of Minnesota soccer. It shows the intent, the identity, and the willingness to dream bigger than the club has before.