Landon Donovan Questions James Rodríguez’s Move to MLS After Minnesota United Transfer

James Rodríguez officially arrived in Major League Soccer after signing with Minnesota United, a transfer that immediately sparked mixed reactions across the soccer world. While many fans welcomed the Colombian star’s arrival, others have questioned the real impact he can deliver following an inconsistent spell with Club León in Liga MX.

One of the most notable critics has been U.S. soccer legend Landon Donovan. Although he acknowledged Rodríguez’s undeniable talent and technical quality, Donovan made it clear that he views the move with caution.

Speaking on the Unfiltered Soccer podcast, Donovan expressed concerns about the context surrounding the signing. He suggested that the proximity of the 2026 FIFA World Cup may be the Colombian midfielder’s primary motivation, rather than a long-term sporting project with Minnesota United.

Rodríguez initially signed a contract that runs through June 2026, coinciding directly with the start of the World Cup. According to Donovan, the short-term nature of the deal helps explain the move but also raises questions about long-term commitment and performance sustainability.

The former LA Galaxy star described a scenario he believes is common in modern football: a player performs at a high level for several months, earns a longer contract extension, and then struggles to maintain the same competitive intensity afterward.

For James Rodríguez, captain of the Colombian national team, the MLS represents an opportunity to regain prominence after challenging periods with León and Rayo Vallecano. The upcoming months will be crucial for rebuilding match rhythm, proving his influence in a growing league, and preparing physically and mentally for the 2026 World Cup.

Minnesota United now hopes the experienced playmaker can provide creativity, leadership, and global attention as MLS continues to attract internationally recognized stars ahead of the tournament hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.