Uruguayan football club Peñarol is pursuing a deal to bring forward Jonathan Rodríguez back to the club, despite the player’s ongoing recovery from a significant knee injury. The 32-year-vintage, who began his career with Peñarol before moving to Benfica in 2015, recently had his contract with Major League Soccer’s Portland Timbers rescinded, making him a free agent.
Peñarol officials have indicated Rodríguez could be a valuable addition, particularly as he progresses in his rehabilitation. “He is a name that interests us because he can be an vital reinforcement when he is 100% recovered from his injury,” a source within the club told Ovación, a Uruguayan sports publication.
Rodríguez’s representative, Edgardo Lasalvia, has publicly expressed the player’s strong desire to return to Peñarol. “Jonathan Rodríguez is better than ever and is exceptionally eager to come to Peñarol. The economic aspect will not be a problem. We just need to sit down and talk with Ruglio,” Lasalvia stated, referring to Peñarol president Ignacio Ruglio.
Recent discussions between Lasalvia and Marcelo Solomita, a Peñarol advisor leading the negotiations, have reportedly been positive. “The meeting was very good and we are on track to close an agreement. It is not yet confirmed, but we are making progress,” Solomita told Ovación.
While the financial terms are not expected to be a major obstacle, Peñarol’s offer will include performance-based bonuses for goals, assists and appearances, as well as potential rewards for winning titles. The salary offered will be high for Uruguayan football standards, reflecting Rodríguez’s international experience.
Rodríguez underwent surgery on July 7, 2025, to address cartilage damage in his right knee, a complex procedure requiring a prolonged and progressive recovery process. Prior to returning to Uruguay, he completed the initial three months of rehabilitation in the United States, adhering to a strict medical protocol.
On October 15, Rodríguez returned to Uruguay to continue his recovery, working with his trusted physiotherapist and physical trainer, Leandro Borges. Borges specializes in a holistic approach to rehabilitation, termed “Osteomioterapia,” focusing on complete physical reconstruction and injury prevention. Rodríguez has established a dedicated training center within his property in Florida to facilitate his recovery.
The rehabilitation program incorporates strength training, functional readaptation, impact-controlled exercises, aquatic therapy, and sauna sessions. According to sources close to the player, the aim is to ensure a full and sustainable return to competition, with a projected return to play in mid-2026.
Portland Timbers officially announced the termination of Rodríguez’s contract on Tuesday, releasing him from his Designated Player status. This move allows Rodríguez to freely negotiate with other clubs, bringing a return to Peñarol closer to reality.
