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James Rodriguez has dismissed reports suggesting he plans to retire after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, insisting the speculation is false and that he intends to continue playing beyond the tournament. The veteran midfielder, who joined Minnesota United on a short-term deal at the start of the MLS season, made his position clear in a postmatch interview on Apple TV.
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Rodriguez Addresses the Rumors Directly
“I don’t know who said that. I think it was in Colombia to get views, to get likes. But I think they should inform themselves a bit more about all these things. The only person who will know how long I want to play, I think, is me.”
“I’m going to say with plenty of time in advance, but right now I think I have a few more years. All those things they’re saying, I think are false. I think it’s bad for the whole country, for fans because they believe things that aren’t true, and for me, of course. I’ve never said that.”
Rodriguez placed the blame for the retirement story squarely on media outlets chasing engagement, calling the reports damaging to fans and to his own reputation. His contract with Minnesota United covers only the first half of the MLS season, and Apple TV and The Athletic reported his final appearance for the club will come against the Colorado Rapids on Wednesday.
Colombia Preparations Begin Next Week
Rodriguez confirmed he will link up with the Colombia national team the week following his last Minnesota fixture, shifting his focus entirely to World Cup preparation.
“Next week, I’ll be with them. Obviously, I want to think about what’s coming up. I’m at a certain age, and I have to think about everything that is coming, which I think will be good. Day to day, I train well. I take good care of my body, and if they give me 30, 40 minutes or the whole match, I have to be ready.”
Colombia open their World Cup preparations with a May 29 friendly against Costa Rica in Bogota, followed by a June 7 meeting with Jordan in San Diego. Los Cafeteros then begin their World Cup campaign on June 17 against Uzbekistan in Mexico City, with DR Congo and Portugal also in the group stage.
Minnesota United have three matches remaining before the World Cup break, starting with Wednesday’s clash against the Colorado Rapids. Follow TipsGG for ongoing World Cup 2026 coverage, match previews, and expert betting analysis.