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James Rodríguez has dismissed reports that he plans to retire following the 2026 World Cup with Colombia, making clear he has no such intentions.
"I don't know where that came from," the 34-year-old told Apple TV after recording his first two MLS assists in Minnesota United's 2–2 draw with Austin FC on Sunday. "I think it was something put out in Colombia for views and likes. People should do a little more research before spreading these things. The only one who knows how long I want to keep playing is me."
"I'll give plenty of notice when I decide to retire, but right now I believe I have several more years left. Everything they're saying is simply not true. It's harmful for the whole country, for the fans who end up believing things that aren't accurate, and for me personally. I've never said anything like that."
Another James Rodriguez assist! This time it's Joaquín Pereyra who puts it in the back of the net! pic.twitter.com/4vGuwS3Hy6
The 2014 World Cup Golden Boot recipient signed a short-term deal through June with Minnesota ahead of the 2026 MLS season and had endured a sluggish start in the top American league, logging just 104 minutes across four appearances, before coming on for 32 minutes against Austin on Sunday.
Facing Los Verdes, James turned back the clock and flashed the dazzling qualities that captivated fans for much of the last two decades. He delivered a perfectly-weighted cross for Anthony Markanich to finish, then threaded a sharp pass to Joaquín Pereyra to help the Loons secure a point.
Following the match, James not only quashed the retirement speculation on Apple TV, but also confirmed he is set to link up with Los Cafeteros for a pre-World Cup training camp on May 17, making Wednesday's fixture against the Colorado Rapids likely his last competitive outing before the tournament.
Will James Return to Minnesota?
While James has put retirement talk to rest, a return to Minnesota appears increasingly doubtful. His current short-term contract expires on June 30, and reports indicate that both he and the club have opted against activating the extension clause for the rest of the season.
What lies ahead for the veteran midfielder remains to be seen. For now, however, all attention is fixed on Colombia's World Cup campaign and his return to the tournament that catapulted him to global fame 12 years ago.
Colombia will take on Costa Rica in Bogotá on May 29 in a World Cup farewell match, then meet Jordan in a friendly in San Diego on June 7. Los Cafeteros kick off their group stage on June 17 against Uzbekistan in Mexico City, before squaring off against DR Congo and Portugal in Miami to conclude Group K play.
"Next week I'll be with the squad," James said. "I obviously want to focus on what's ahead. I'm at a certain point in my career and I need to consider everything that's coming, which I believe will be positive. Day by day, I train hard. I take good care of my body, and whether they give me 30, 40 minutes or a full match, I need to be ready."