Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal gain advantage as James Rodriguez faces serious Minnesota problems before World Cup

With only 47 days left before the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the focus is now on the biggest stars preparing to lead their countries. Cristiano Ronaldo remains the main figure for Portugal, bringing leadership and experience as another major tournament gets closer.For Colombia, the situation is more worrying. James Rodriguez is struggling for minutes at Minnesota United, and his poor club form has raised serious concerns before Colombia’s big group-stage clash against Portugal.

James Rodriguez’s Minnesota United struggle creates big concern for Colombia before facing Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal

James Rodriguez did not play in Minnesota United’s recent win over FC Dallas on April 23, and that only increased the worry around his form and fitness. Before that, he played just one minute against the Portland Timbers and has not reached even 120 total club minutes this year.Even more worrying, the 34-year-old still has no goals and no assists this season. For a player expected to guide Colombia in a World Cup, that lack of rhythm is far from ideal. His role in the national team is still huge, but his current club situation is making things difficult.According to Spanish outlet Marca, Colombia manager Nestor Lorenzo is planning to personally visit several possible World Cup players, and Minnesota is expected to be one of his first stops.

The goal is to understand James Rodriguez’s limited role and check his condition before final squad decisions are made.Meanwhile, Cristiano Ronaldo gives Portugal much more confidence. Even at 41, he remains central to the team’s plans and continues to be their biggest leader heading into the tournament. That clear difference only makes Colombia’s worries around James stand out even more.Still, there is time for things to change. Minnesota United have seven matches left before the World Cup begins, including games against LAFC, San Jose Earthquakes, Columbus Crew, and Austin FC. These matches could give James the chance to rebuild confidence and prove he is ready when Colombia faces Portugal on the biggest stage.