Colombian Midfielder James Rodriguez to Sign for Atletico Nacional
In a move that comes as a total shock for Colombian football, 35-year-old midfielder James Rodriguez has reportedly reached a definitive agreement to join Atletico Nacional. The blockbuster move, which is expected to be made official in the coming hours or days, brings the national team icon back to the country as a free agent […]
James Rodriguez, the 35-year-old Colombian midfielder, has reportedly signed a definitive agreement to join Atletico Nacional. This surprising move comes as a shock to Colombian football, as the national team icon returns to the country after leaving MLS side Minnesota United following the 2026 FIFA World Cup. With the Colombian transfer window for free agents closing on Friday, Atletico Nacional quickly moved to secure the signature of a player eager to anchor himself in a club offering structural guarantees and a significant sporting project.
The negotiations progressed rapidly, causing Rodriguez to abandon his imminent return to Europe. Just days ago, he was in discussions with Italian Serie B club Avellino, which made a compelling offer. However, Atletico Nacional capitalized on the situation to persuade the superstar to remain in Colombia. According to journalist Cesar Augusto Londoño, Rodriguez even delayed his flight to Madrid to undergo medical examinations with the Antioquian club in Medellin, leading to a decisive meeting to finalize the contract details.
Rodriguez had already verbally agreed to the transfer, and the deal is expected to be made official in the coming hours or days. The superstar is poised to become Atletico Nacional's fifth club in the Americas, joining previous stints with Banfield, São Paulo, León, and Minnesota United. Meanwhile, in Medellin, the city is abuzz with the news of another significant signing – 38-year-old former winger Juan Guillermo Cuadrado has agreed to terms with Millonarios FC.
Cuadrado will fill the void left by injured Jhomier Guerrero and is expected to complete his move shortly.
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