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The uncertainty surrounding James Rodriguez's present in the United States seems to have come to an end. After weeks of speculation, medical reports and absences from Major League Soccer (MLS) call-ups, the Colombian midfielder is set to be the big news for Minnesota United for Tuesday's Lamar Hunt US Open Cup clash. The opponent will be Sacramento Republic, and the venue will be Heart Health Park in California, where the “Loons” will be looking to advance in the country’s oldest knockout tournament.
An ordeal that began on the FIFA date
The last time James Rodriguez set foot on a soccer field in an official capacity with his club was on March 22 against the Seattle Sounders. Since then, his path has been one of concern. After joining the Colombian national team for friendlies against Croatia and France, where he played more than 120 minutes of high-intensity soccer, the midfielder suffered a case of severe dehydration that led to a two-day hospitalization.
That episode unleashed a wave of rumors in the US press, with a possible rhabdomyolysis (a serious condition caused by the breakdown of muscle tissue) being mentioned. However, Minnesota United's medical department was quick to deny these reports, assuring that the player has followed a rigorous and progressive recovery process.
The frustrated return against San Diego FC
During the past weekend, the expectation to see James was high. The Colombian traveled with the delegation to San Diego and was captured by the club's cameras in training and in the locker room during the celebrations of the 2-1 victory. However, head coach Cameron Knowles opted for prudence and left him off the list of substitutes at the last minute.
"James has done everything that has been asked of him. He is a leader by his behaviour and a born winner," Knowles told a press conference, highlighting the Cucuta native’s attitude despite not having played recently. The decision to rest him was aimed at ensuring that his reappearance would be in a rotation context where he could have a greater role from the start or with guaranteed quality minutes.
US Open Cup: Time for a starting debut?
Tuesday's match against Sacramento Republic (a USL Championship team) is the ideal opportunity. With a tight MLS schedule, the coaching staff is expected to make considerable rotation. According to reports close to the club, journalist Andy Greder confirmed that James will be "available for selection", which opens the door for the Colombian to be the team’s linchpin in this cup tournament.
For James, these minutes are vital. With only 39 minutes played in the Minnesota United shirt since his signing in February 2026, the lack of rhythm is his main enemy. The No.10’s goal is clear: to be in peak physical condition for the 2026 World Cup, which will be played in North America, in what is shaping up to be his last great tournament.
What's next for the '10'?
If the return is completed on Tuesday, James will have overcome the most important physical obstacle of his time in MLS. If there are no setbacks, his next challenge would be next Saturday, April 18, when Minnesota hosts LAFC at Allianz Field.
Colombian fans and Loons followers remain attentive. James' talent is intact, but his physique remains the thermometer that will mark the success of his adventure in Minnesota. Tonight, against Sacramento, the countdown begins to see the magic of Colombia's most famous left foot once again.
