Matías Rojas, a promising midfielder from Paraguay, has made the headlines with his recent transfer to renowned Argentinian club River Plate. This move marks a significant shift in his career following an unsatisfactory stint with Inter Miami, where negotiations for contract extension failed to materialize. Rojas had initially joined Miami as a free agent back in April, with ambitions to make a mark in Major League Soccer (MLS) through the 2024 season and potentially beyond. However, after demonstrating his talent with five goals and three assists in just 16 appearances, his time in the U.S. has come to an abrupt halt.
Challenges and Injuries: A Tough Season
Rojas’s first season with Inter Miami was not without its challenges. A sprained ankle sidelined him for a critical number of games, disrupting his rhythm and limiting his contributions during the latter part of the 2024 season. Despite this setback, the midfielder impressed under the guidance of former head coach Gerardo “Tata” Martino, effectively integrating into the attacking setup. Nevertheless, the club opted not to exercise the two additional years on his contract, which led to an uncertain future for the talented player.
On December 9, the situation took a decisive turn when Inter Miami stated they would not activate Rojas’s contract options and instead chose to pursue alternative options for the team. Negotiations between Rojas and the club ensued, but unfortunately, an agreement could not be reached. This impasse forced Rojas to reevaluate his options, leading him to seek opportunities back in his home country. Such a conclusion can be frustrating, especially considering the effort he had put forth to acclimatize and perform at a high level within the team.
Now signed with River Plate, Rojas is set to embark on an exciting new journey in one of the most prestigious clubs in South America. His arrival is timely as River Plate gears up for its preseason, with matches lined up against Club Universidad de Chile on January 17 and a friendly against the Mexico national team on January 21. His experience in both domestic and international football, including notable stints with Cerro Porteño and Racing Club, should provide valuable depth to River Plate’s midfield.
Rojas’s resume includes noteworthy appearances with the Paraguay national team, where he has netted one goal in 21 caps since making his senior debut against Peru on March 22. His international experience could play an integral role as he adapts back to Argentine football, where the competitive spirit is as intense as ever. Looking ahead, this transition to River Plate not only offers him a fresh start but also the opportunity to further hone his skills on a prominent stage, potentially solidifying his place as a key player in South American football.