Following Inter Miami‘s impressive performance in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025, the team has decided to implement some squad changes. The first major move was the arrival of world champion Rodrigo De Paul, yet he was not the only addition. His entrance paved the way for Leo Afonso’s departure, which opened up an international registration slot for the 2025 season. Now, Lionel Messi is set to welcome another player to strengthen the team.
Inter Miami announced the signing of left-back Cesar Abadia Reda on a short-term loan deal. The young defender joins on loan from the MLS NEXT Pro franchise team, where he has accumulated 51 appearances. Fans may find this move somewhat perplexing; however, the league allows such contracts with youth players. They enable their participation in MLS, the U.S. Open Cup, Concacaf Champions Cup, Canadian Championship, and friendlies.
While not a star signing like Rodrigo De Paul, Cesar Abadia Reda provides an alternative for Javier Mascherano, having been with the franchise for some time. His addition seeks to cover Noah Allen, who has not fully recovered from injury, and offer a rest for Jordi Alba, who has played extensively this season. However, he will not participate in the Leagues Cup, as MLS regulations do not permit it for him.
Cesar Abadia’s arrival highlights Inter Miami’s growing depth concerns
Even before the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 kicked off, Javier Mascherano highlighted the need to strengthen the team. Despite having star players capable of making a difference, their veteran status needs rotation to maintain their impact. They addressed the offensive lineup by signing Allen Obando to give Luis Suarez some rest, but the defensive side still appears limited.
Lionel Messi #10 of Inter Miami CF celebrates scoring his team’s second goal with teammate Jordi Alba #18 during the MLS match between CF Montreal and Inter Miami CF at Saputo Stadium on July 5, 2025 in Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Following David Martinez’s departure, the team faced additional challenges with Ian Fray, who continues to recover, and Noah Allen, who has yet to regain full match fitness. Consequently, Javier Mascherano had to assign midfielder Benjamin Cremaschi to the left-back position due to Jordi Alba’s suspension. Cesar’s arrival is poised to bring much-needed balance to the lineup and offer greater flexibility for substitutions.
see also
After announcing Rodrigo De Paul, Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami officially part ways with another player
Inter Miami reportedly targeting former Lionel Messi teammate to strengthen defense
Considering their roster depth issues, Inter Miami are looking to sign Marc Bartra to reinforce their defensive line, reported ESPN journalist Claudio Alfaro. Even though Maximiliano Falcon’s addition to the defense has addressed many issues, the lineup still primarily relies on Tomas Aviles and Gonzalo Lujan as its core members. For that reason, Marc’s potential arrival could give the team an edge heading into the season.
