The Colombian Football Federation released a statement on Thursday informing that star player James Rodriguez had been hospitalized for three days after the friendly match against France on Sunday, "due to a health problem unrelated to sport".

James Rodriguez's health caused concern among Colombian players after their 3-1 friendly loss to France on Sunday at Northwest Stadium in Landover, Washington. The Colombian Football Federation released a statement on Thursday explaining that the star player had been hospitalized for three days for an issue unrelated to his football activities.

"Severe dehydration"

"The Colombian Football Federation, through its medical staff and the National Teams Directorate, wishes to inform the public and the media of the health status of the captain of the Colombian national team: James Rodríguez," the statement reads. "After contacting a medical center in Minnesota (the city where the player currently plays), it was confirmed that the midfielder was placed under medical observation due to a health issue unrelated to sports. The day after the match against France, the player presented with severe dehydration, requiring a 72-hour hospitalization as a precaution and for monitoring his recovery."

"This situation is not related to musculoskeletal injuries or to the evolution of his football activities."

"It is important to clarify that this situation is not related to any musculoskeletal injuries or the course of his football activities," the statement continued. "Fortunately, the current medical report indicates a positive development and steady improvement. The Colombian national team's medical staff maintains constant and coordinated communication with Minnesota United FC to closely monitor his progress. On behalf of the FCF, we wish James a speedy and full recovery."

After a brilliant season at Monaco (2013-2014), James Rodriguez went on to play for Real Madrid before moving on to Bayer Leverkusen, Bayern Munich, and Everton, among others. He joined Minnesota United, an American MLS club, last February after a stint in Mexico (with León). Despite a noticeable decline in his on-field performances and heavy criticism from fans in his home country, James Rodriguez remains an undisputed star of the Colombian national team (124 caps, 31 goals), of which he is the captain. He is preparing to play in his third World Cup next summer, after those of 2014 and 2018, if his health allows.