Report: Lionel Messi could reunite with former Argentina teammate and World Cup finalist at Inter Miami

Just over a week before their debut in the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, Inter Miami are fine-tuning final details to arrive in top form. In that context, rumors are swirling that they’re looking to add an Argentine star who played in two World Cups alongside Lionel Messi.

According to TyC Sports, the Herons are aiming to sign Marcos Rojo to strengthen their defense, one of the team’s most vulnerable areas this year. The left-footed center-back brings extensive experience from both European and South American soccer and would join the club’s growing roster of big-name stars.

At 35 years old, Rojo is currently under contract with Boca Juniors through December 31, 2025. So far, he has not held any discussions with club president Juan Roman Riquelme about a possible extension, leaving his future up in the air.

The uncertainty surrounding his contract renewal is tied to off-field issues that have impacted his standing within the Argentine club. This year, Rojo has played in 13 matches and, while his performances have generally been solid, he has been involved in several off-the-field controversies that have caused him to fall out of favor with the coaching staff. These incidents have also led to frustration among fans, who voiced their displeasure with boos and whistles during several home games.

Marcos Rojo and Lionel Messi celebrate a crucial goal for Argentina vs Nigeria at 2018 FIFA World Cup

Who is Marcos Rojo?

Rojo made his professional debut in 2008 with Estudiantes de La Plata, where he quickly showcased his potential and drew interest from European clubs. At just 20 years old, he was sold to FC Spartak Moscow in 2010 for just over $2 million. Two years later, he joined Sporting CP for nearly double that amount.

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Rojo’s strong performances in Portugal opened the door to one of Europe’s biggest clubs, Manchester United, who signed him in 2014 for $22 million. It was with the English side that he reached the peak of his career, appearing in 122 matches over six seasons.

After a short return to Estudiantes in 2020, which was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Rojo joined Boca Juniors the following season and quickly became a team leader. Since then, he has played in 118 matches, scored nine goals, and won four titles.

Rojo’s connection to Messi

While building a successful club career, Marcos Rojo also had a significant run with the Argentina national team. Between 2011 and 2019, he earned 61 caps and played alongside both Lionel Messi and Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano. He was part of the squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup in Brazil, where Argentina reached the final against Germany. Four years later, he also competed in the World Cup in Russia, scoring the crucial goal that sent Argentina to the round of 16.

This isn’t Inter Miami’s first move for Rojo

Rojo’s link to the Herons actually dates back to 2023. “Leo Messi called me to go to Inter Miami,” the defender previously revealed, according to TyC Sports. However, Rojo turned down the offer at the time, choosing to remain in Argentina. “The truth is I wasn’t convinced about leaving Boca. I had just renewed my contract.”