Inter Miami ended the 2024 season with their first ever MLS title, setting the stage for an ambitious new chapter under coach Javier Mascherano. However, the club faces significant challenges ahead of 2025. This is because important teammates Lionel Messi and Luis Suarez are moving to a powerful club in South America.
The biggest obstacle Inter Miami had to overcome was the absence of Messi, who suffered a serious ankle injury in the Copa America final. But Matias Rojas stepped up as the best successor to the Argentine legend, and despite Messi’s apparent absence, the Paraguayan midfielder provided a creative spark and kept the team competitive. He forged a productive partnership with Suarez in order to
Despite his contribution, Rojas’ contract was not renewed and he opted to join River Plate on a free transfer. He joined Inter Miami in April after leaving Brazilian club Corinthians due to unresolved wage issues, but ended up being a perfect fit for Tata Martino’s team.
The announcement of his departure disappointed some fans, given his smooth integration into the team and ability to quickly adapt to MLS mid-season. During his short spell at Inter Miami, Rojas made an impact in the first team despite joining mid-season, scoring nine goals and providing two assists (including one for Suarez) in 20 appearances.
Inter Miami faces depth challenges in attacking third
Rojas’ departure creates a vacuum at Inter Miami, especially since he served as a natural replacement for Messi’s role. Known for his left-footed accuracy and acumen in the attacking third, Rojas played a pivotal role in key moments, including scoring (alongside Messi) in a narrow 3-2 loss to Atlanta United in the MLS playoffs. fulfilled.
In addition to Rojas, the club has also seen the departure of other contributors like Diego Gomez and Leonardo Campana, making the roster even thinner. These departures will put added pressure on Messi and Suarez, who lack reliable backups who can match their skill sets or ease their workload.
To address these gaps, Inter Miami made early moves in the January transfer window, acquiring free agent Fafa Picoult and signing Taddeo Allende on loan from Europe. While both signings strengthen the squad, neither player appears to be able to match the quality or versatility that Rojas offers.
Inter Miami are preparing for a tough 2025, including participation in the newly revamped FIFA Club World Cup. Co-owner Jorge Mas has stressed the club’s financial readiness to pursue additional signings, hinting at a major move in the transfer market.
Loading…