Lionel Messi Inter Miami targets Marcos Rojo signing as the club seeks to strengthen its defense before the upcoming FIFA Club World Cup. Reports from TNT Sports Argentina indicate that the 35-year-old former Manchester United defender is a priority transfer target for the Herons in the next window, aiming to add experience to their backline.
Rojo, currently playing for Boca Juniors, brought his defensive skills to Manchester United with 122 appearances from 2014 to 2020. In addition, he earned 61 caps for Argentina’s national team, La Albiceleste, between 2011 and 2019, sharing the field with Messi for 45 of those matches.
Previous Efforts and Current Defensive Challenges
Inter Miami has shown persistent interest in Rojo over time, having made an offer following their MLS Supporters’ Shield success in June 2024, though it was declined by the veteran defender. At the start of the 2025 MLS season, the Herons also secured defensive reinforcements, including centre-backs Maximiliano Falcon and David Martinez (on loan), along with right-back Gonzalo Lujan.
Despite these additions, Miami’s defense remains vulnerable, as opposing teams have frequently exploited defensive gaps. This weakness contrasts sharply with their dominant offense, led by Messi’s outstanding tally of 10 goals and five assists across 13 league fixtures. While Miami boasts the top attack in MLS with 36 goals scored in 17 games, their defense has conceded 27 goals—the highest among playoff-qualified teams in the Eastern Conference.
Rojo’s Potential Role in Strengthening Miami’s Backline
Adding Marcos Rojo’s seasoned presence could bring the stability Inter Miami urgently needs. His extensive experience, including participation in two FIFA World Cup tournaments alongside Messi and current coach Javier Mascherano, would likely bolster team chemistry and defensive organization. Such qualities are particularly valuable in high-pressure tournaments like the Club World Cup.
Rojo’s Decision to Stay at Boca Juniors Despite Interest
Last summer, rumors circulated about a possible transfer to Inter Miami, but Rojo chose to remain with Boca Juniors. His reasons were made clear when he spoke about the situation:
“Leo called me, it’s not like it was just anyone or an intermediary, no one. I spoke with Leo Messi, who told me about the possibility of going to Inter. Imagine what that means for any footballer. The truth is I was not convinced to leave Boca, I had recently renewed.” —Marcos Rojo, Defender
“The only thing I did was communicate with Roman (Riquelme) to tell him about the situation and to tell him that if he needed me here I was going to stay. I wasn’t convinced to leave, I didn’t want to leave. If he told me that he needed me here for this year, I was 100% convinced to continue in Boca and I want to continue doing it,” Rojo added. —Marcos Rojo, Defender
His loyalty to Boca Juniors, as expressed, reflected a desire to honor his existing commitments despite the appeal of joining a club led by his former teammate.
Implications of a Possible Rojo Signing Before Club World Cup
As Inter Miami prepares for the FIFA Club World Cup, reigniting interest in Marcos Rojo underlines their ambition to enhance both defensive reliability and squad depth. Integrating a player of Rojo’s caliber would bring not only tactical benefits but also reinforce the leadership qualities within the team. His presence could play a crucial role in balancing Miami’s potent offense and fragile defense, improving their prospects on the international stage and solidifying their bid for further success.