James Rodriguez Calls Time On Colombia Career After 131 Caps
Colombia captain and midfield star James Rodriguez has announced his retirement from international football after an illustrious 15-year career with the national team.
The 35-year-old confirmed his decision on Tuesday, bringing an end to a Colombia career that produced 131 appearances, 31 goals and several memorable moments on the international stage.
“Thank you for every match, every joy, every tear and every dream we shared. Defending the colours of the Colombia national team was one of the greatest honours of my life,” Rodriguez said in a video posted on social media, according to Reuters.
Rodriguez made his senior debut for Colombia in 2011 and went on to represent the South American nation at three World Cups and four Copa America tournaments.
His defining moment came at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he emerged as one of the tournament's standout players. Rodriguez scored six goals to finish as the tournament's top scorer and inspired Colombia to the quarter-finals.
His stunning volley against Uruguay in the last 16 earned him the FIFA Puskas Award for the best goal of the year.
The former Real Madrid star also enjoyed a decorated club career, winning two Champions League titles and two LaLiga crowns during his time in Spain. He also featured for Bayern Munich and Everton, among other clubs.
Rodriguez recently returned to his native Colombia, joining Atletico Nacional on a deal running until June 2027 after leaving Major League Soccer outfit Minnesota United.
His international retirement now closes a remarkable chapter for one of Colombia's most celebrated footballers.
The 35-year-old confirmed his decision on Tuesday, bringing an end to a Colombia career that produced 131 appearances, 31 goals and several memorable moments on the international stage.
“Thank you for every match, every joy, every tear and every dream we shared. Defending the colours of the Colombia national team was one of the greatest honours of my life,” Rodriguez said in a video posted on social media, according to Reuters.
Rodriguez made his senior debut for Colombia in 2011 and went on to represent the South American nation at three World Cups and four Copa America tournaments.
His defining moment came at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, where he emerged as one of the tournament's standout players. Rodriguez scored six goals to finish as the tournament's top scorer and inspired Colombia to the quarter-finals.
His stunning volley against Uruguay in the last 16 earned him the FIFA Puskas Award for the best goal of the year.
The former Real Madrid star also enjoyed a decorated club career, winning two Champions League titles and two LaLiga crowns during his time in Spain. He also featured for Bayern Munich and Everton, among other clubs.
Rodriguez recently returned to his native Colombia, joining Atletico Nacional on a deal running until June 2027 after leaving Major League Soccer outfit Minnesota United.
His international retirement now closes a remarkable chapter for one of Colombia's most celebrated footballers.
