James Rodríguez set to terminate contract: Could he join Inter Miami to team up with Messi?

01/06/2025 09:21 AM

James Rodríguez's inconsistent club form, despite his strong performances for the Colombian national team, is a key factor in his uncertain future. His next move will depend on finding the right fit.

The future of Colombian midfielder James Rodríguez is shrouded in uncertainty following his impending departure from Rayo Vallecano. While a return to his homeland appears likely, several other options remain on the table, including a potentially lucrative move to Major League Soccer (MLS).

James Rodríguez's contract with Rayo Vallecano expires at the end of June, allowing him to negotiate with other clubs as a free agent. However, his legal team has reportedly initiated the process of terminating his contract early.

According to journalist Felipe Sierra, Rayo Vallecano has been informed of this and is awaiting official documentation. While Junior de Barranquilla has expressed strong interest and is aware of James's terms, no agreement has yet been reached.

Several clubs have shown interest in Rodríguez, but only a few stand out as realistic options. One strong contender is Junior de Barranquilla, a Colombian club that needs a player in his position. The prospect of a return to his home country makes Junior a significant possibility. However, other leagues, including MLS and Liga MX, are also reportedly in the mix.

MLS and Liga MX in the running

David Beckham's Inter Miami is rumored to be preparing a substantial offer for Rodríguez, envisioning a dream partnership with Lionel Messi. This potential move represents a significant opportunity for both the player and MLS to increase international exposure and attract high-profile talent.

Despite the tempting offer from Inter Miami, Rodríguez has expressed a desire to remain in Europe. However, his recent spell with Rayo Vallecano was far from successful; he made only seven appearances, recorded one assist, and failed to score a goal. His limited playing time and underwhelming performances have understandably opened up potential new avenues for the player.

International form vs. club performance

One of Rodríguez's main challenges appears to be the discrepancy between his performances with the Colombian national team and his club teams. He's consistently been one of Colombia's best players—arguably the best—while his club performances have often been inconsistent, resulting in limited playing time, whether starting or coming off the bench. This inconsistency could influence potential suitors.

Rodríguez's upcoming decision will have significant repercussions for his career trajectory. While the allure of playing alongside Messi in Miami and returning home to Colombia are significant, there may be potential opportunities in Europe, given his contributions to the Colombian national team.