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

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.

MEXICO CITY (AP) — 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.

Convertido en el tema de conversación del fútbol mexicano, el mediocampista colombiano James Rodríguez aseguró este martes en su presentación como fichaje estelar del León que cuenta con la calidad suficiente para brillar en la liga local y a nivel internacional en el próximo Mundial de Clubes de la FIFA.

Rodriguez is set to play in the competition along other big-name players like Inter Miami's Lionel Messi and more

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

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.

James Rodriguez has joined Mexican side Club Leon after leaving Rayo Vallecano earlier this month. The 33-year-old had his contract terminated at Rayo on January 6, having made just seven appearances for the Spanish club.