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James Rodriguez's adventure in Major League Soccer (MLS) is, so far, a rollercoaster of emotions and setbacks. After his high-profile move to Minnesota United in February this year, the expectation to see the Colombian return to his best was high. However, recent news has set alarm bells ringing: James was not called up for the match against San Diego FC, despite having been given the medical all-clear after a delicate health episode.
The origin of the problem: The "FIFA virus" and hospitalization
It all started in late March, during the last FIFA double-header. James joined the Colombian national team for a high-profile friendly against France. After the match on March 29, the midfielder began to experience symptoms of extreme fatigue and general malaise.
What initially seemed like normal wear and tear from the trip and the match, turned out to be severe dehydration. The situation was serious enough for the player to be hospitalized for 72 hours on his return to the United States. During those days, rumors in the American press flew, even speculating with rhabdomyolysis (a breakdown of muscle tissue that can damage the kidneys), something that Minnesota United had to strongly deny through an official statement.
The medical report: "Recovered, but under caution"
Earlier this week, the Loons club issued an encouraging report. James had passed the critical stage, laboratory tests ruled out any chronic pathology and the player had rejoined supervised physical activity sessions.
However, for this weekend's game against San Diego, head coach Cameron Knowles decided not to include him in the travel roster. According to sources close to the team, the decision is due to a strict “progressive reintegration” protocol. The coaching staff prefers not to risk a physical relapse in a player who, at 34 years of age, requires much more careful load management.
The concern ahead of the 2026 World Cup
James' absence is not only a concern in Minnesota, but also in Colombia. With the 2026 World Cup just around the corner, coach Nestor Lorenzo is keeping a close eye on the midfielder's every move. James arrived in MLS on a short contract (until June with an option to extend) precisely to gain competitive rhythm and be in full form for the World Cup.
So far, James' statistics in Minnesota are discreet. He has barely been able to play a couple of games due to initial visa procedures and now this health problem. The lack of continuity is the biggest enemy of the Colombian captain, who knows that in MLS he cannot afford to go unnoticed if he wants to lead the “Tricolor” in June.
What's next for James?
Minnesota United's next target on the calendar is the U.S. Open Cup match against Sacramento Republic, scheduled for Tuesday, April 14. It is expected that if James completes the high-intensity training sessions on Sunday and Monday without any problems, he could at least get some minutes from the bench.
The Saint Paul fans are eagerly awaiting the former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star's talent to finally shine consistently. For now, the club's message is one of patience: James is healthy, but the road to full fitness still has some way to go.
