James Rodriguez dismisses retirement rumors, saying reports were to 'get likes'

TL;DR

James Rodriguez has dismissed rumors of retirement, stating they were aimed at gaining attention. He remains focused on his soccer career, including plans for the 2026 World Cup.

Key points

James Rodriguez denies retirement rumors
Rumors were meant to attract attention
He plays for Minnesota United in MLS
Rodriguez assisted in a recent match against Austin FC
He aims to participate in the 2026 World Cup

Mentioned in this story

James Rodriguez

Minnesota UnitedAustin FC2026 World CupCopa América

James Rodriguez dismisses retirement rumors, saying reports were to 'get likes'

James Rodriguez might be leaving MLS, but he's not ending his soccer career.

The Colombia international signed a short-term deal with Minnesota United before the MLS season, but has failed to impress. At least, he had failed to impress until May 10, when he registered a pair of assists and helped the Loons to a 2-2 draw with Austin FC.

The 2026 World Cup always has been part of Rodriguez's plans after he turned back the clock in the 2024 Copa América and helped Colombia to the final against Argentina. While the Cafeteros finished as runners-up, Rodriguez was named the tournament's best player.

Now 34, reports over the weekend indicated he might be planning to hang up his boots after the 2026 World Cup, but Rodriguez said he sees himself playing longer and has no plans to retire.

"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," he said in a post-match interview with MLS's Spanish-language broadcast. "The only person who will know where 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 couple 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."