New James Rodriguez update issued over 'serious' medical issue after star rushed to hospital

MLS side Minnesota United have issued a medical update on midfielder James Rodriguez after he was hospitalised with dehydration during the recent international break.

The 34-year-old, formerly of Real Madrid, Monaco and Everton, started both of Colombia's international friendlies against Brazil and Croatia over the break.

He then returned home to Minnesota, where he showed symptoms of what the Colombian Football Federation described as 'severe dehydration that required hospitalisation'.

"It is important to clarify that this situation is not related to musculoskeletal injuries, nor is it linked to his football activities," the statement continued.

"Fortunately, the current medical report indicates a favourable evolution and steady improvement."

Rodriguez was absent from Minnesota's 2-1 win over LA Galaxy in Major League Soccer on Sunday night.

It was reported by local outlet St. Paul's Pioneer Press on Friday that the club asked for an examination of Rodriguez's medical records by their team doctor, who deemed the records to be 'serious'.

He was released from hospital on Wednesday. The club's official website lists Rodriguez's absence as 'illness'.

No further details have been released at this stage.

SPORTbible have contacted Minnesota United for further comment.

Head coach Cameron Knowles has since provided an update.

James Rodriguez pictured in action for Minnesota United (Image: Getty)

Speaking prior to Sunday's victory, Knowles told reporters: "He's day to day on the advice of our medical team.

"As he makes progress, we will integrate him as we can.

"It's the way it is. There is always something. It's a different type of reason for someone to be missing, but injuries happen - illness happens, life happens - where guys are missing, and it's an opportunity for the next guys to step up."

Rodriguez is the captain of the Colombian national team, and will play for them at this summer's World Cup as long as he is fit to do so.

They have been drawn against Portugal, DR Congo and Uzbekistan in Group K.

The 34-year-old has played at a number of clubs since leaving Everton in 2021, including Qatar Stars League side Al-Rayyan.

There, he played a pivotal role in saving the life of opposition defender Ousmane Coulibaly, who suffered a cardiac arrest during a league match between Al-Rayyan and Al-Wakrah.

Rodriguez was seen sprinting over to Coulibaly, before re-positioning his head prior to the arrival of further medical assistance.

"Thanks to God and the work of those heroes, I was saved," Coulibaly wrote on Instagram.

"Thanks to James Rodriguez who made the first move to adjust my head. Also to [Al-Wakrah team-mate] Saoud Al-Khater who quickly signalled the medical team on."