The James alarm bells are getting louder and louder

James Rodríguez’s situation at Minnesota United is becoming increasingly concerning. On Tuesday, the midfielder did not see a single minute in the Loons’ MLS win over FC Dallas in Texas, where a sizable group of Colombian fans had gathered, hoping to see the No. 10 take the field. When Cameron Knowles completed all his substitutions, those fans eventually left the stadium disappointed.

Minnesota’s coaching staff continues to send clear signals that James is not high in the pecking order. In the previous match against the Portland Timbers, he played just one minute - an appearance that clearly frustrated the Colombia captain. Through four matches, he has logged only 106 minutes. He has started just once, in the U.S. Open Cup at Sacramento, where he played 66 minutes.

James concerns grow as World Cup looms

There are now just 55 days to go until Colombia’s World Cup campaign kicks off against Uzbekistan in Mexico City, and James is not getting the minutes he needs to build competitive rhythm. His lack of prominence may be tied to Minnesota’s strong form, as the American side is currently riding a six-match unbeaten streak. Still, Colombia head coach Néstor Lorenzo and his staff are surely uneasy about the situation surrounding their playmaker.

At this point, the 34-year-old midfielder’s path forward is clear: work relentlessly in training and convince the coaching staff. There are seven Minnesota matches left before the World Cup. His limited playing time is already having an effect, something that was evident during the last FIFA international window, when he was beaten in several situations due to a clear lack of match fitness.

It is true that Minnesota has taken a cautious approach with James following the health issue he suffered in late March while with the Colombian national team. However, with the World Cup rapidly approaching, he needs to arrive with meaningful minutes under his belt.

When is Minnesota’s next game?

Minnesota’s next MLS match could prove pivotal. The Loons face Los Angeles on Saturday, April 25, at 4:45 p.m. ET/1:45 p.m. PT, in a crucial opportunity for the Colombian star to finally get back on the field and log valuable minutes.

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