Inter Miami's Goalkeeping Shake-Up: Ríos Novo and Barraza In, Ustari Out, Avilés Loaned to CF Montréal
Inter Miami CF have made significant moves in their goalkeeping department, signing Rocco Ríos Novo and Luis Barraza on permanent deals while parting ways with veteran Óscar Ustari. Additionally, young defender Tomás Avilés heads to CF Montréal on loan for more playing time. Get a closer look at how these changes will impact the team's dynamics.
Inter Miami CF have signed goalkeepers Rocco Ríos Novo and Luis Barraza on permanent deals, terminating the contract of veteran Óscar Ustari in the process. Ríos Novo spent last season with the club and started in the MLS Cup final. Separately, defender Tomás Avilés will join CF Montréal on loan for more playing time. Ríos Novo earned his permanent move after arriving on loan last year and becoming a crucial figure in Inter Miami’s historic 2025 season, which culminated in lifting the MLS Cup. The goalkeeper started every postseason match, recording two clean sheets in decisive games. Across all competitions, he made 19 appearances during the year, finishing with five shutouts. He is expected to back up the club's new addition in Dayne St. Clair, the 2025 MLS Goalkeeper of the Year. Barraza, 29, joins Inter Miami after spending the 2025 season with D.C. United, where he made 24 appearances and recorded four clean sheets. With experience across MLS, the USL Championship, and MLS NEXT Pro, the goalkeeper adds depth and a winning pedigree, having lifted the MLS Cup in 2021 and the Campeones Cup in 2022.Although the official announcement has yet to be made public, the decision has reportedly already been made and will be communicated in the coming days. The experienced 39-year-old goalkeeper Óscar Ustari has not taken part in recent training sessions in Fort Lauderdale, Fla., and was left out of Javier Mascherano’s friendly squad for this Saturday's match against Alianza Lima in Peru.Add GOAL.com as a preferred source on Google to see more of our reportingCF Montréal have brought in Argentine center back Tomás Avilés from Inter Miami on loan. The agreement includes a purchase option, giving Montréal flexibility while betting on the upside of a talented young defender.The move aligns with the needs of both clubs. Montréal add a 21-year-old defender who arrived in MLS with significant expectations due to his potential, while Avilés gains a change of scenery and a clearer opportunity for consistent playing time. For Miami, the departure helps address a roster crunch, as one of the club’s U-22 Initiative players needed to move on this winter.
Ríos Novo's Rise to Stardom at Inter Miami
Rocco Ríos Novo's journey from a loanee to a permanent signing at Inter Miami CF showcases his talent and impact on the team's stellar 2025 season. Playing a pivotal role in the club's MLS Cup triumph, Ríos Novo's performances in crucial matches underline his potential and reliability in goal.
Barraza's Winning Pedigree Enhances Inter Miami's Depth
Luis Barraza brings a wealth of experience and a winning mentality to Inter Miami, having previously clinched the MLS Cup and Campeones Cup with past teams. His addition bolsters the squad's goalkeeping options, providing valuable depth and competition in the position.
Ustari's Departure and Avilés' Loan to CF Montréal
The departure of Óscar Ustari signals the end of an era for Inter Miami, making way for the new generation of goalkeepers. Meanwhile, Tomás Avilés' loan move to CF Montréal presents an opportunity for development and regular playing time, benefiting both clubs involved.
