James Rodríguez, at 34 years old, remains active in the Major League Soccer. Despite the fact that retirement seems premature, injuries have affected his development The Colombian at this stage of his career. Rumors have put James close to retirement after the World Cup, but the player himself denied these statements.

The midfielder of the Colombian team watches minutes constantly with Minnesota United of the MLS. The former Real Madrid player could be one of those called by the cafeter team or for the World Cup. This scenario has been analyzed as James's last big tournament. But the Colombian considers that he could still have a couple of years left in professional football.

“I don't know who said that, I think it was in Colombia to gain views, to gain likes, views. The only one who will know how far he wants to play I think he is oy I (…) I think now I have a couple of years and all those things that are said are false”, said James Rodríguez in post-match statements.

During his stay at Minnesota United, James Rodríguez has been assuming a secondary role in the field. The Colombian midfielder has difficulties playing 90 minutes and is generally used as a replacement.

The former Real Madrid player takes this role with a lot of responsibility. James Rodríguez only played 27 minutes in Minnesota United's last match. The Colombian team drawn 2-2 against Austin FC.

“I train well. I always give day day everything that I have. And when you get these types of minutes, you have to be ready,” the South American said after the match.

James Rodríguez in MLS

For MLS in its 2026 season, James Rodríguez has not been able to play a full game. After 12 games of American soccer, Rodríguez has only been able to see action in 5 commitments.

James Rodríguez played 26 minutes against Vancouver on matchday 4; accumulated another 13 minutes against Seattle on matchday 5; played a couple min utos against Portland on matchday 8; played 63 minutes in the 0-1 loss against Los Angeles FC and against Austin only saw action for 27 minutes.

That is, for the MLS, James has only been able to play 130 minutes in the current season (little more than one full game). The South American midfielder has supported rmade 2 assists during that time. Despite this, James looks forward to his inclusion in the Colombian team to face the 2026 World Cup.

“17 would be with them. Obviously I want to think about what is coming. I'm a certain age and I have to think about everything that's coming, which I think will be good,” said James.