The highly anticipated Major League Soccer debut of Colombian star James Rodriguez is in jeopardy following reports of a delay in his US work visa processing. Despite being officially presented by Minnesota United ten days ago, the 34-year-old playmaker has yet to train with the first-team squad.
Rodriguez, the captain of the Colombian national team, signed a six-month contract with the “Loons” on Feb. 6, eyeing the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
However, according to reporting from the St. Paul Pioneer Press, the midfielder is currently in the United States on a tourist visa and is legally prohibited from participating in team activities until his P-1 athlete visa is approved.
Preseason setbacks for James
While Minnesota United has been preparing for its season opener, Rodriguez has been notably absent from the training ground. The former Real Madrid and Bayern Munich star has been limited to individualized workouts in the club’s gym.
Rodriguez missed the team’s final preseason friendlies against DS United and Charlotte FC. Having last played an official match in November 2025 for Club Leon in Mexico, concerns are mounting over his match fitness ahead of a demanding MLS schedule.
New challenges, same essence @MNUFC pic.twitter.com/SLM4q5NMsH
— James Rodríguez (@jamesdrodriguez) February 6, 2026
Colombian journalist Carlos Antonio Velez also stirred controversy by claiming that if Rodriguez were to train with his team during his current migratory conditions, he could expose himself to being apprehended by ICE.
The race against time for James Rodriguez’s visa
Minnesota United is scheduled to open its 2026 campaign this Saturday, Feb. 21, against Austin FC. With only four days remaining before the match, head coach Cameron Knowles faces the reality of starting the season without his marquee signing.
“I’m looking forward to giving everything on the field,” Rodriguez said during his presentation, but his debut at Allianz Field, originally expected for the home opener on Feb. 28, now hinges entirely on federal paperwork.
The club has not officially commented on the status of the visa, though sources indicate they are working to expedite the process to avoid further delays for the Colombian icon.