Colombian star James Rodríguez, currently playing for Minnesota United in the MLS, has responded to reports suggesting he is set to retire. The 34-year-old midfielder firmly denied these claims, emphasizing that he still has more to offer on the pitch.
Recently, various speculations emerged in the Colombian press and on social media suggesting that James Rodríguez might end his professional career. The player himself dismissed such information as baseless, suggesting that someone simply spread false news to gain views and likes.
“I don’t know who said that. I think someone in Colombia was trying to get views and likes. They should have been better informed about such matters,” said James.
Rodríguez stressed that he is the only one who will decide his future. He openly stated his intention to continue playing for several more years, which could mean he remains a key figure for the Colombia national team ahead of the World Cup.
“Only I know how long I want to play. I will say it myself. I still have several years left in my career. All the rumors are lies,” he added.
The Colombian midfielder noted that such rumors can negatively affect the player, the team, and the fans. He emphasized that many people believe misinformation, while he himself has never spoken about retiring.
James says he is training well and working at full capacity every day. The player noted that regardless of whether he plays for 20, 30, or 40 minutes, he must be ready to change the course of the game.
“I am training well and working at full capacity every day. You have to be ready. Whether you play 20, 30, or 40 minutes, you must be prepared to change the course of the game,” Rodríguez said.
At the same time, James did not hide the fact that he is getting older. He acknowledged that he needs to think about his future but expressed confidence that positive events lie ahead.
It is worth noting that the 34-year-old player was hospitalized after a friendly match against France on March 29. Furthermore, reports previously circulated about a conflict between James Rodríguez and Luis Díaz, and rumors that the coaching staff might only take one of them to the World Cup.
In the 2026 World Cup group stage, the Colombia national team will compete in Group K against Portugal, Uzbekistan, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Colombians will play their first match of the tournament against the Uzbekistan national team on June 17, US time. The match will take place at the famous Estadio Azteca in Mexico.
In short, James Rodríguez has put an end to the retirement rumors. He is not ready to leave football yet, is training hard, and is ready to prove himself before the World Cup. For Colombia, James remains a source of experience, technique, and the composure needed in big games.
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