During Lionel Messi’s arrival in MLS, the Argentine star won just two official titles with Inter Miami — one of them coming in the 2024 Supporters’ Shield after a 3-2 victory over the Columbus Crew, powered by a Messi brace. Now, a former teammate from that championship run could soon be lining up against him in the league.
That player is Paraguayan midfielder Matias Rojas, whose brief spell with Inter Miami was hampered by injuries. Rojas made just 14 appearances and scored four goals, including a brace in a 6-2 rout of the New York Red Bulls.
While his MLS stint was short-lived, Rojas could be set for a return — this time as an opponent of Messi and his former club. After Miami opted not to renew his contract, Rojas joined South American giants River Plate on a free transfer.
However, his stint in Argentina has mirrored his struggles in Miami, with recurring injuries limiting him to eight appearances and one goal under manager Marcelo Gallardo. With the midfielder no longer in Gallardo’s plans, he could now be headed for a return to MLS.
Matias Rojas #7 of the Inter Miami CF celebrates with Lionel Messi #10 after scoring his second goal in the 62nd minute against the New York Red Bulls. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
According to journalist German Garcia Grova, the Portland Timbers have opened talks to sign Rojas during the current transfer window. With his River Plate contract set to expire at the end of the year, discussions are reportedly progressing as both clubs work toward a possible deal.
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Inter Miami’s transfer moves this window
After advancing to the Leagues Cup quarterfinals, Inter Miami are looking to strengthen Javier Mascherano’s squad as Lionel Messi and company chase their ambitious goals for the season.
The club’s marquee addition so far has been midfielder Rodrigo De Paul from Atletico Madrid. De Paul quickly earned a starting role and scored his first goal for Miami in just his fourth appearance. According to reports, the Herons are also targeting another Argentine, Cruz Azul defender Gonzalo Piovi, as they aim to bolster their back line.
But as Miami add reinforcements, they’re also set to lose key pieces. While negotiating for Piovi, several reports confirmed that midfielder Federico Redondo will head to Europe to join Elche in Spain on a permanent transfer.
In addition, MLS insider Tom Bogert reports that Charlotte FC have reached an agreement to sign goalkeeper Drake Callender, who played a pivotal role in Miami’s 2024 Supporters’ Shield and 2023 Leagues Cup titles.
