Despite being far removed from the 2014 World Cup which made him a household name, Rodriguez’s signing has been hailed as historic in Mexico. The most valuable player from last summer’s Copa America has chosen to play in Liga MX, spurning an opportunity to return home to Colombia ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

After a brief stint with Rayo Vallecano, Colombia international James Rodríguez' next stop in Mexico's top flight will be eight-time champion Leon, one of three Mexican teams which have qualified for this year's Club World Cup.

Colombia international James Rodríguez has signed with Liga MX's León, the Mexican club announced on Monday. Recently a free agent after terminating his contract with Rayo Vallecano -- who initially signed James in August -- the 33-year-old will now join a León side that kicks off their 2025 Clausura run on Jan. 18.

JAMES RODRIGUEZ has become unemployed for the sixth year in a row and is reportedly considering a return to the Premier League. The 33-year-old is available as a free agent after his contract at

Colombia star James Rodríguez arrived in Mexico on Monday amid widespread reports that he will sign a one-year contract with Club Leon.

Colombia captain and ex-Real Madrid star James Rodriguez has joined Mexico's Club Leon after a brief and unsuccessful stint with La Liga side Rayo Vallecano, the clubs announced on Monday.He lifted two La Liga titles and two Champions Leagues with Real Madrid and won two Bundesliga trophies during a loan spell at Bayern.

James Rodriguez's increasingly nomadic career has now seen the Colombia star head to Mexico following his departure from Rayo Vallecano.

Syracuse, NY -- Forty new citizens from 19 different countries were welcomed to the United States today in a ceremony held at the James M. Hanley Federal Courthouse in downtown Syracuse.

Colombia captain James Rodriguez has joined Mexico's Liga MX side Club Leon from LaLiga's Rayo Vallecano on a free transfer, both teams announced on Monday. Local media reports said Rodriguez had signed a one-year contract with an option for another season.

Colombia's James Rodriguez, center, trains with Leon, his new soccer club in Leon, Mexico, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/)

Colombia's James Rodriguez, center, trains with Leon, his new soccer club in Leon, Mexico, Tuesday, Jan. 14, 2025. (AP Photo/)