After a week of uncertainty that kept both Colombian fans and MLS followers on edge, Minnesota United have broken their silence. James Rodríguez, the club's star player and captain of the Colombian national team, has returned to the Loons' training facilities, putting an end to a series of alarmist speculation about his fitness.
The club was blunt in its official statement. In response to reports circulating on social media and some media outlets suggesting that the midfielder was suffering from rhabdomyolysis — a serious condition involving the breakdown of muscle tissue that can compromise kidney function — Minnesota United's medical team was adamant:
"Both the club and our medical professionals can categorically state that there has been no clinical or laboratory evidence of rhabdomyolysis."
With this statement, the team seeks to protect the player's privacy and mitigate the media "noise" surrounding his hospitalization on March 31, following the international friendly between Colombia and France.
James' recovery process has been closely monitored. He played against France on March 29 and showed symptoms of severe dehydration after the match. Due to persistent symptoms, he was hospitalized on March 31 for intravenous treatment and monitoring. He was discharged on April 2 after showing improvement and continued recovery at home.
He missed Minnesota’s match against LA Galaxy on April 4 as a precaution, but returned to the club’s training complex on April 6 for his first supervised reintegration session.
Although back in training, his return to full competition will be gradual. He is currently undergoing low-intensity, individualized work under medical supervision to evaluate his physical response before rejoining full team sessions.
Minnesota United will face San Diego FC on April 11, and while James could be included in the squad if his progress continues, he is expected to start from the bench to avoid any risk of relapse.
The update also reassures the Colombian national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup. The Colombian Football Federation has been in direct contact with Minnesota’s medical staff, confirming that his condition was due to dehydration from overexertion and ruling out any serious or chronic health issues.
James Rodríguez is back, and with the club dismissing concerns about his health, the focus returns to football for the Colombian playmaker.
