SSince joining MLS, James Rodriguez has not been able to find consistency with Minnesota United. His debut match was not the best as the team suffered a 6-0 defeat, but as a result he was criticized for not being the addition he was expected to be.
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The Colombian player complained of physical discomfort, which he blamed on his club’s infrastructure. He blamed Minnesota’s artificial turf for his foot problems. He excuses himself with the claim that he is not used to playing on synthetic pitches.
Last week I did something to my leg. My body is not used to training on such courts. On hard courts, on artificial fields. I think I’ll be able to feel 120% better. I know how to get out of all this. have to train hard
Both the team and James hope he can quickly adapt to the artificial field. If we want to be in good shape for the 2026 World Cup, we have to adapt as soon as possible. The club is desperate for him to break out of his current slump and regain his level in order to become a worthy contender.
James Rodriguez’s injury specter
James was already sounding the alarm before his debut. His debut was delayed several days after sustaining a bruise during practice, causing him to miss key games against Nashville and Cincinnati. For some critics, this is the “James Cycle” already seen in Qatar, Greece, Brazil and Mexico. A period of brilliance is followed by a long period of withdrawal due to physical illness.
In Minnesota, where MLS soccer requires intense physical activity and constant travel across the continent, the Colombian’s health is the biggest source of skepticism. The question hanging over Allianz Field is how many full games James will be able to play before heading back to the medical room.
Bridge deal and 2026 World Cup
Another factor contributing to the mistrust is the nature of his relationship with the club. James signed a guaranteed contract until June 2026 in time for the start of the World Cup. There is an option to extend it until December, but many see Minnesota simply as a “high-end gym” where the Colombian player is trying to build momentum toward his last major World Cup appearance with Colombia.
