Minnesota United deny James Rodriguez muscle-wasting condition health rumours

Minnesota United issued a categorical denial of reports that James Rodriguez was suffering from rhabdomyolysis, a severe and potentially fatal condition involving the rapid breakdown of muscle tissue, as the Colombia captain returned to the club's Golden Valley training facility for a supervised session on Monday.

"The club and our medical professionals can unequivocally state there has been no clinical or laboratory evidence of rhabdomyolysis," Minnesota United said in an official statement. The club also asked "members of the media and the public to refrain from further speculation regarding James's health," pledging that all future updates would come through official club channels.

Rodriguez's symptoms began during Colombia's 3-1 loss to France on March 29 in Landover, Maryland, in a World Cup tuneup match in which the 34-year-old played 63 minutes. The following day, March 30, he was examined and diagnosed with severe dehydration. Given the severity of the clinical presentation, he was admitted to a hospital facility on the morning of March 31 for continued monitoring and IV fluid therapy.

The Colombian Football Federation confirmed that the episode was of a "non-sports-related" origin and issued a statement declaring a favorable prognosis for Rodriguez's recovery. He was hospitalized for three days before being discharged.

Minnesota United coach Cameron Knowles, speaking after a 2-1 road victory over the LA Galaxy on April 4, said Rodriguez was "day to day" and under the care of the Loons medical team. The team announced on Monday that Rodriguez had reported to the practice facility for a supervised return-to-activity session, with his reintegration into full team training to be guided by club medical staff.

Rodriguez, who joined Minnesota United on a short-term deal earlier this year and made his Loons debut on March 15 at Vancouver, has played in only two of the club's six games this season. His availability remains uncertain, and the club has given no target date for his return to competitive action.

The timing carries significant weight beyond the MLS season. Both Colombia and Minnesota United are eager to have the midfielder fit for the 2026 World Cup, with his recovery being closely monitored by both parties. Rodriguez captained Colombia in both March friendlies, against Croatia and France, underlining his continued centrality to the national team's plans despite the health scare.

Rhabdomyolysis, the condition at the center of the media speculation, can be triggered by extreme exertion, overheating, or other causes and, in serious cases, can lead to kidney failure. Minnesota United's unequivocal denial, backed by clinical and laboratory findings, draws a firm line under those concerns. What remains now is a straightforward, if carefully managed, return to fitness for one of the most high-profile players the MLS has seen this season.