Lionel Messi gets a new apprentice as Inter Miami announce signing of Argentina prospect in latest boost to 2025 MLS Cup bid

Eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Messi remains a talismanic presence at Chase Stadium, as he fills the captain’s armband, but he is unable to play every fixture in a packed schedule at 37 years of age. The all-time great has sat out Inter Miami’s last three matches as no risks are taken on his fitness.

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In a bid to ensure that they have enough creativity at their disposal to compete on multiple fronts, the Herons have moved to acquire another playmaking No.10. Rodriguez is that man, with the 21-year-old being snapped up from Argentine giants Racing on loan for the rest of the 2025 campaign. Said deal includes the option for a permanent transfer to be completed later in the year.

Rodriguez, who played under Inter Miami boss Javier Mascherano when forming part of Argentina’s U23 squad for the pre-Olympic Tournament in 2024, has already won Copa Sudamericana and Recopa Sudamericana titles in his homeland, while also gracing the prestigious Copa Libertadores.

Inter Miami have said in a statement on the club’s official website: “Rodriguez, 21, joins Inter Miami from Argentine side Racing Club de Avellaneda, where he developed as a youth player prior to debuting for the first team in 2023. The midfielder subsequently established himself as an important player for Racing, racking up 69 appearances across all competitions while contributing seven goals and four assists.

“Notably, he helped the club win the 2024 Copa Sudamericana title, featuring in eight matches and recording a goal and two assists en route to being crowned champions, and the CONMEBOL Recopa Sudamericana 2025 title. Additionally, during his time with Racing, Rodríguez shared the pitch nine times alongside new Inter Miami teammate Tomas Aviles.

“The Monte Hermoso, Argentina native also boasts international experience in his young career. Rodríguez has represented Argentina at the U-23 level, competing with the team at 2024 CONMEBOL Pre-Olympic Tournament under the management of Inter Miami head coach Mascherano. Rodriguez made five appearances in the tournament, scoring a goal in the process, as Argentina’s U-23 national team qualified for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. Notably, Rodriguez featured alongside new Inter Miami teammates Gonzalo Lujan, Federico Redondo and Rocco Rios Novo in Argentina’s squad for CONMEBOL’s Pre-Olympic Tournament.”

Inter Miami have gone unbeaten through their opening six games at the start of the 2025 season. Five victories have been secured, with New York City FC the only side to hold the Herons, with positive progress being made in MLS and CONCACAF Champions Cup competition.