Inter Miami signs another Argentine teammate for Lionel Messi, previously coached by Mascherano

Inter Miami‘s 2025 season is set to be a demanding one, with the introduction of the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup in June and July adding to their packed schedule. With the need for squad depth to compete on multiple fronts, the MLS side has announced the signing of another Argentine player to play alongside Lionel Messi — one with previous experience under Javier Mascherano.

On Monday, Inter Miami confirmed the arrival of Baltasar Rodriguez on loan from Racing Club. Following the departures of Diego Gomez and Matias Rojas, the Argentine midfielder is expected to play a key role in strengthening the team’s midfield.

Rodriguez joins Inter Miami fresh off a successful spell with Racing Club, where he lifted the 2024 CONMEBOL Copa Sudamericana after defeating Cruzeiro, and the 2025 CONMEBOL Recopa Sudamericana after beating Botafogo.

His loan deal runs until the end of the 2025 season and includes a $4.5 million buy-option clause for 80% of his rights — a clause that becomes mandatory if he features in more than 66% of the team’s matches.

Rodriguez’s arrival makes him the ninth Argentine player at Inter Miami and the fourth Argentine signing at the start of 2025. He follows in the footsteps of Gonzalo Lujan, Tadeo Allende, and goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo. Additionally, Oscar Ustari rejoined the squad, though he was already part of the team last season.

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Rodriguez’s previous experience with Mascherano

At just 21 years old, Rodriguez’s signing aligns with Inter Miami’s long-term vision of building a youthful squad around star player Lionel Messi. Notably, Rodriguez has previously worked with Mascherano during his tenure as Argentina’s U-23 national team coach.

Mascherano called up Rodriguez for the 2024 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament, where the midfielder played in five of seven matches and scored a goal against Uruguay. His consistent performances earned him a key role in Mascherano’s squad.

Rodriguez’s debut for Inter Miami will depend on the receipt of his P-1 Visa and International Transfer Certificate (ITC). Once cleared, he is expected to reinforce a squad that currently sits second in the MLS standings. His arrival will also reunite him with former Racing Club teammate Tomas Aviles, with whom he shared the pitch on nine occasions.