James Rodríguez’s World Cup Is in Danger and He Might Not Go Due to the Proximity of the FIFA World Cup 2026

James Rodríguez, captain of Colombia, is experiencing a complex present in the MLS: few minutes, physical doubts, and pressure before the World Cup.

Absence that raises alarms

James Rodríguez, a symbol of the Colombian national team, is living days of uncertainty in the MLS. At 34 years old, the midfielder is not getting consistent playing time with Minnesota United, and the lack of minutes is causing concern in his country, especially with the World Cup approaching.

The last match against FC Dallas was a hard blow: the former Real Madrid player didn't play a single minute. The absence raised alarms in the press and among the fans, who see how the captain of "los cafeteros" is losing competitive rhythm. It's not an isolated case: in the previous match against Portland Timbers, he was barely on the field for a minute, reflecting the little confidence that Cameron Knowles, the "loons" coach, has given him in this stage.

The frustration of a leader

James's frustration is evident. Since his debut with the club, he has barely accumulated 106 minutes in four matches, with only one start in the US Open Cup against Sacramento. For a player of his caliber, accustomed to being a key figure, the lack of continuity is a blow that threatens to impact his World Cup preparation.

The immediate background is a health issue suffered in March, which is why the coaching staff decided to handle it with caution. Knowles chose to limit his participation to avoid relapses, but that precaution is affecting his physical condition and confidence. The dilemma is clear: protect the footballer or give him playing time to ensure he arrives in shape for the tournament.

The challenge before the World Cup

The schedule offers a final chance. Minnesota United has seven matches left before the World Cup, each one will be vital for James to regain rhythm and show that he can still be decisive. The final decision will rest in the hands of Néstor Lorenzo, the coach of the Colombian national team, who will have to assess whether the midfielder is fit to lead the team. La Tricolor will debut on June 18 against Uzbekistan, and the uncertainty about James' role remains one of the major topics leading up to the match.