James Rodriguez’s Next Move: Top Club Options After Leaving Minnesota United

James Rodríguez‘s brief stint with MLS side Minnesota United seems to be coming to a close, and the eyes are already on the next club where the Colombian playmaker can continue his club career after the FIFA World Cup.

The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich player inked a short-term contract with Minnesota United in February 2026, but the agreement is only valid until June, and the club has an option to extend it until December. Minnesota confirmed Rodríguez would be leaving the club to join Colombia for World Cup preparations, but reports indicate he is not expected to return after the tournament.

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Will James Rodríguez Return to Minnesota United?

That seems improbable at this point.

Although Minnesota United possesses an option to keep Rodríguez through the remainder of the MLS season, multiple reports have stated that both parties expect his stay to end following the World Cup. The Colombian captain managed only limited appearances during his time in MLS, with injuries and international commitments restricting his impact.

Minnesota signed Rodríguez to shore up the team ahead of the World Cup break, and it was always a possibility that it would be a short-term fix.

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Where Could James Rodríguez Play Next?

Several possibilities remain open once the World Cup concludes.

It is possible that he may return to one of his previous clubs. Although it may be improbable at this stage of his career, an emotional return to one of Europe’s biggest teams is still a possibility if the right opportunity arises. Rodríguez had memorable spells with Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Porto, AS Monaco, Everton, and Rayo Vallecano.

A move back to South America has also been on the table for a long time, and Colombian teams have been in the mix whenever Rodríguez is up for grabs. As Colombia‘s captain, it’s not impossible that he’ll end his career closer to home.

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