Former Inter Miami Star and Messi Teammate Eyes Shocking MLS Move—Which Rival Club Is Making the Bold Play?

Lionel Messi’s time at Inter Miami has been nothing short of transformative—not just for the club, but for Major League Soccer itself. Over two years, he’s etched his name into the league’s history, steering Miami to their very first official trophies. But here’s the kicker: one of his former teammates from those glory days is gearing up for a return to MLS, and this time, he won’t be playing alongside Messi, but against him. As Europe’s big leagues gear up for the new season, MLS isn’t slowing down either. The 2025 summer transfer window has already brought in heavyweights like Rodrigo De Paul and Son Heung-min, and with just days left, we could see another familiar face crossing back into the fold. The Portland Timbers are reportedly hustling to snap up Matías Rojas—the Paraguayan midfielder who shined under Messi in Miami’s Supporters’ Shield-winning team. After a challenging stint at River Plate, where injuries and limited playtime stalled his momentum, a second act in MLS seems just around the corner. The transfer dance is heating up, and all eyes are on how Rojas’s next move unfolds. LEARN MORE .

Lionel Messi has spent more than two years at Inter Miami, leaving a unique mark on Major League Soccer and the club itself by helping secure their first two official titles. After sharing the field with numerous teammates, one of his former championship-winning colleagues is now poised to return to the league, this time as a rival.

With European leagues preparing for a new season, MLS has benefited from an influx of talent during the 2025 summer transfer window, highlighted by the arrivals of Rodrigo De Paul and Son Heung-min. With just nine days left before the window closes, a familiar face could soon be making his comeback.

According to transfer specialist German Garcia Grova, the Portland Timbers are working on a deal for Matías Rojas. The Paraguayan midfielder was part of the Messi-led Inter Miami squad that won last season’s Supporters’ Shield. After a rocky spell back in Argentina, his next stop may once again be MLS.

Frozen out of River Plate’s squad, the Argentine club has been working to facilitate his departure. Early reports suggested both parties were close to a mutual termination without compensation, but with the Timbers’ sudden interest, a formal offer is now expected in the coming hours.

After terminating his contract in April 2024, Rojas joined Inter Miami midseason and quickly became one of the team’s standout performers thanks to his quality and technique. His contract expired in December, ending his Herons stint with 20 appearances, nine goals, and two assists. Now, with talks reportedly progressing quickly, an MLS return looks increasingly likely.

Rojas’ struggles at River Plate

Following the expiration of his Inter Miami contract, Rojas signed with River Plate as a free agent in January. After impressing in MLS, he was expected to play a key role under head coach Marcelo Gallardo, but injuries have heavily disrupted his time in Buenos Aires.

Initially earning minutes off the bench, Rojas soon began battling muscular injuries, missing 11 matches and featuring in only seven—scoring once on his debut. At the FIFA Club World Cup, he made the bench but didn’t see the field, capping off a frustrating eight months at the club.