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Inter Miami's Goalkeeper Overhaul: Ríos Novo and Barraza In, Ustari Out, Aviles Loaned to CF Montreal

Inter Miami CF shake up their goalkeeper lineup by signing Rocco Ríos Novo and Luis Barraza while parting ways with Oscar Ustari. Tomas Aviles heads to CF Montreal on loan, adding depth and opportunities for the players involved.

Inter Miami's Goalkeeper Overhaul: Ríos Novo and Barraza In, Ustari Out, Aviles Loaned to CF Montreal

Inter Miami CF have signed goalkeepers Rocco Ríos Novo and Luis Barraza on permanent deals, terminating the contract of veteran Oscar Ustari in the process. Ríos Novo spent last season with the club and started in the MLS Cup final. Separately, defender Tomas Aviles will join CF Montreal on loan for more playing time. Rios 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 Oscar 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 Tomas Aviles from Inter Miami on loan. The agreement includes a purchase option, giving Montreal flexibility while betting on the upside of a talented young defender.The move aligns with the needs of both clubs. Montreal add a 21-year-old defender who arrived in MLS with significant expectations due to his potential, while Aviles 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.

1

Ríos Novo's Rise to Prominence

Rocco Ríos Novo secures a permanent deal with Inter Miami after an impressive loan spell. The goalkeeper played a pivotal role in the club's 2025 MLS Cup triumph, showcasing his talent in crucial postseason matches with key shutouts.

2

Barraza's Winning Pedigree and MLS Experience

Luis Barraza's arrival brings a wealth of MLS experience and a winning mentality to Inter Miami. With a history of success in the league, Barraza's addition bolsters the team's goalkeeping options for the upcoming season.

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Ustari's Departure Signals a New Era

The departure of veteran goalkeeper Oscar Ustari signifies a changing of the guard for Inter Miami. With new faces in goal, the club looks to build on past successes and continue their upward trajectory in the MLS.

4

Aviles Loaned to CF Montreal for Development

Tomas Aviles' loan to CF Montreal provides the young defender with a valuable opportunity for consistent playing time and growth. The move benefits both clubs, with Montreal gaining a promising talent and Miami addressing their roster needs.

Published on Jan 24, 2026