Former Real Madrid midfielder and Colombia icon James Rodríguez was rushed to hospital following the South American side’s 3–1 defeat to France.
On Sunday (29 March), Rodríguez could not help Colombia avoid defeat against the two-time World Cup winners in Maryland, as Désiré Doué’s brace and Marcus Thuram’s first-half strike helped Didier Deschamps’ side to a 3–1 win.
Players were forced to deal with 26-degree heat, which led to Rodríguez spending 72 hours in hospital after showing signs of “severe dehydration”.
On Thursday (2 April), the Colombian Football Federation revealed that the 34-year-old did not display symptoms until he returned to Minneapolis, where he now plays his club football for Minnesota United.
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“The Colombian Football Federation, through its medical staff and the National Teams Directorate, wishes to inform the public and media about the health status of the captain of the Colombian National Team: James Rodríguez,” a statement from the federation read.
“It has been confirmed, after establishing communication with a medical centre in the state of Minnesota, that the midfielder has been under professional observation due to a non-sports-related medical condition.
“The day after the match against France, the player presented with severe dehydration that required hospitalisation for the past 72 hours for preventative and recovery monitoring.”
Colombia also stated that the issue was not related to prior injuries, with the player having previously suffered muscle injuries during his career.
“It is important to clarify that this situation is not related to musculoskeletal injuries, nor is it linked to his football activities,” the statement added.
“Fortunately, the current medical report indicates a favourable evolution and steady improvement.
“The Colombian National Team's medical staff maintains constant and coordinated communication with Minnesota United FC to closely monitor his progress.
“From the FCF we wish James a speedy and full recovery.”
Rodríguez played 63 minutes against France, having also featured for the same duration three days earlier in the 2–1 defeat to Croatia in Florida.
Colombia will take part in the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America with the South Americans grouped with Portugal, DR Congo and Uzbekistan.
Topics: James Rodriguez, Football, FIFA World Cup
Luke Davies