James Rodriguez Rushed To Hospital With Severe Dehydration, 'Not Linked To Footballing Activities'

Last Updated:April 03, 2026, 07:10 IST

Colombia captain James Rodriguez spent three days in hospital with severe dehydration after a France friendly, is recovering in Minnesota, World Cup fitness still uncertain

Colombian football captain James Rodriguez was hospitalised for three days with severe dehydration following a friendly match against France, the Colombian football federation said Thursday.

The 34-year-old former Real Madrid and Everton attacker played in Sunday’s World Cup warm-up match in Landover, Maryland, which Colombia lost 3-1. Rodriguez was substituted after 63 minutes, having appeared sluggish and disconnected from the game.

He “presented symptoms of severe dehydration that required his hospitalisation over the past 72 hours," the federation said.

Rodriguez was taken to a hospital in Minnesota, where he plays for Major League Soccer side Minnesota United, “for preventive clinical monitoring and recovery."

The statement continued: “It is important to clarify that this situation is unrelated to any musculoskeletal injuries and is not linked to the performance of his footballing activities."

Minnesota United confirmed that Rodriguez is recovering, telling AFP that his status for this weekend’s clash with LA Galaxy will be updated on Friday.

Rodriguez joined the MLS side in February but has played just 39 minutes so far due to injury. The federation’s statement said his hospitalisation was not related to those injuries.

His physical fitness remains uncertain ahead of Colombia’s World Cup campaign this summer, when they will face Uzbekistan, DR Congo and Portugal in Group K.

Rodriguez was the top scorer at the 2014 World Cup, joining Real Madrid soon afterwards.

He continues to play a pivotal role for Colombia. Head coach Nestor Lorenzo has faced criticism for starting Rodriguez against France and in a previous friendly against Croatia despite his lack of match fitness.

James Rodriguez’s Record For Colombia

Rodriguez has made more than 100 appearances for his country and is set to captain Colombia at this summer’s World Cup. The South American nation is in Group K, alongside Portugal, DR Congo and Uzbekistan.

(With inputs from Agencies)

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