Inter Miami CF has made significant strides in bolstering its roster as it heads into the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The club has officially confirmed the acquisitions of defender Gonzalo Lujan and goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo. Both players bring unique skills and international experience that should enhance the team’s competitiveness, not just in the domestic league, but also on the international stage.
Defensive Reinforcement: Gonzalo Lujan
Gonzalo Lujan arrives at Inter Miami from San Lorenzo, one of the prominent teams in the Argentine Primera División. His signing is particularly impactful as the club aims to solidify its defensive lineup. Lujan’s versatility—capable of playing both as a center-back and a fullback—addresses a crucial need for depth in multiple defensive positions. Inter Miami’s President of Football Operations, Raúl Sanllehí, highlighted the significance of this acquisition, emphasizing that Lujan’s youth and flexibility would provide essential support to the squad.
Moreover, Lujan’s connection with Miami’s new head coach, who he previously worked with during his time on the Argentina under-23 team at the 2024 Summer Olympics, could facilitate a smoother integration into the team’s tactical setup. This familiarity might also allow him to adapt quickly to the playing style and expectations of the MLS, which can differ significantly from what he experienced in Argentina.
In tandem with Lujan’s signing, Inter Miami has also brought in goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo on a one-year loan from Club Atlético Lanús. This move is indicative of the club’s strategy to cultivate a highly competitive environment in the goalkeeping department. With Rios Novo joining existing goalkeepers Óscar Ustari and Drake Callender, the team is poised to witness an intense battle for the starting spot.
Rios Novo’s background is particularly intriguing; born in Los Angeles, he possesses the unique opportunity to represent multiple nations, including Mexico, the United States, and Argentina. His experience with Argentina’s youth national teams, particularly under head coach Javier Mascherano, equips him with a solid foundation and a clear understanding of high-pressure situations. Sanllehí remarked that acquiring a talented young keeper not only enhances the squad’s depth but also aligns with the organization’s aims to compete vigorously in various tournaments.
The offseason has been an active period for Inter Miami as they not only strengthened their roster but also made critical adjustments. With the arrivals of seasoned players such as Fafà Picault and Tadeo Allende, the club appears focused on blending youthful talent with experienced hands to create a well-rounded squad. However, it is essential to note that roster changes also mean saying goodbye to players like Matías Rojas and CJ Dos Santos, indicating a significant transition within the team.
These changes reflect a clear intention to enhance performance levels while also preparing for multiple competitions, both in the U.S. and abroad. The forthcoming 2025 preseason will see Inter Miami engage in a friendly match against Club America on January 18 in Las Vegas. Following this, the team will embark on a tour across South and Central America, marking a critical period for team cohesion and fitness before entering the new season.
As the roster takes shape, the team faces additional challenges on the horizon. Notably, goalkeeper Drake Callender was recently dropped from the roster for the upcoming friendly against Venezuela due to a minor muscle strain. This incident underscores the intense physical demands placed on athletes and serves as a reminder that injury management will be pivotal for Inter Miami as the season progresses.
Inter Miami CF’s latest signings demonstrate an ambitious approach to the 2025 MLS season. By incorporating young talent like Lujan and Rios Novo, the organization is clearly aiming to build a dynamic and versatile squad ready to tackle both domestic and international challenges. As they prepare for a busy preseason, the focus will be on fostering team chemistry and maximizing player potential—a formula that could lead to significant achievements in the upcoming season.