James Rodríguez Joins Atlético Nacional on One-Year Deal

Atlético Nacional have completed the signing of Colombia captain James Rodríguez on an initial one-year deal, with an option to extend his stay in Medellín. The attacking midfielder joined before the deadline for free-agent registrations, ending a period without a club since July.

A homecoming in Colombian football

The move takes James back to Colombia’s top division for only the second time in his career. He began his professional career with Envigado in 2006 before moving abroad and becoming one of the country’s most recognisable players.

Nacional secured the agreement while James had been linked with Serie B club Avellino in Italy. The 35-year-old instead chose the Antioquia side, in a deal concluded without public indications that negotiations were underway.

• James has signed for one season, with an extension option included.
• He joins Nacional as a free agent after leaving Minnesota in July.
• His Minnesota spell lasted eight matches.
• His last competitive appearances came with Colombia during the 2026 World Cup, where the national team reached the round of 16.

Nacional hail marquee arrival

The club confirmed the transfer on Thursday evening with a message reflecting the significance of the deal. Nacional said the signing had come from persistent work carried out by people behind the scenes, describing it as an effort driven entirely by commitment to the club.

In a second part of the announcement, Nacional thanked supporters for their faith and declared that James was now an Atlético Nacional player, presenting the move as a meeting between Colombia’s leading playmaker and one of its biggest clubs.

The capture represents a major statement for Nacional, who have added a former World Cup Golden Boot winner and Colombia’s current captain to their squad during the domestic campaign.

Fitness work and title ambitions

James’s immediate task will be to regain match sharpness after his absence from club football since July. Nacional will assess how quickly he can be integrated into the side following his international involvement earlier in the summer.

Once available, the midfielder is expected to offer creativity and final-ball quality as Nacional pursue the Categoría Primera A title. His adaptation to the team’s structure, and the timing of his first appearance, will now be central points of attention for supporters in Medellín.