James Rodríguez recovering after dehydration scare following Colombia duty
Minnesota United FC has confirmed that midfielder James Rodríguez is recovering at home after being hospitalized with severe dehydration symptoms following an international friendly. The 34-year-old Colombian star required medical attention last Sunday after his country's match against France, according to a club statement released on social media.
The Major League Soccer franchise explained that Rodríguez began experiencing symptoms that worsened in the hours after the match. The club's update stated that the player "has begun to feel symptoms of dehydration which worsened in the following hours." He has now returned to his residence to begin a gradual return to exercise under medical supervision.
His recovery timeline will be guided entirely by his clinical progress, with Minnesota United emphasizing that his return to play will be managed carefully. This health scare comes at a critical moment for Rodríguez, who is expected to be a key figure for Colombia in the upcoming World Cup, which begins in just a few weeks. He would be participating in his third global tournament after appearances in 2014 and 2018.
Rodríguez has historically performed well on the world stage, registering six goals and four assists in just eight World Cup matches. His standout performance came in Brazil 2014, where he won the Golden Boot with six goals, including his famous volley against Uruguay that was voted tournament goal of the year. That tournament propelled his career forward, leading to a high-profile move from AS Monaco to Real Madrid.
The playmaker joined Minnesota United as a Designated Player ahead of the 2025 MLS season, bringing significant global attention to the club. His arrival represented a major coup for the league, adding a former Champions League winner and global icon to its ranks. Before moving to the United States, Rodríguez had spells with European giants including Bayern Munich and Everton, in addition to his time at Real Madrid.
For Minnesota United, managing his health is paramount as the MLS season progresses. The club currently sits mid-table in the Western Conference and relies heavily on Rodríguez's creativity in the final third. His ability to deliver decisive passes and score from distance has already made him a fan favorite at Allianz Field.
The immediate concern is ensuring his full recovery before club and country commitments intensify. Colombia will be hoping their veteran playmaker is fully fit for their World Cup campaign, where they face a challenging group stage. Minnesota United, meanwhile, will be cautious with his reintegration, balancing their need for results with their star player's long-term well-being.
