Inter Miami Tidbits: Major Player Moves; Champions Tour

The Herons won the 2025 MLS Cup and have not looked back. Majority owner Jorge Mas stated that the 2026 CONCACAF Champions Cup is a prime objective, and Inter Miami CF has made several major moves and player signings that appear to have made the MLS champions even stronger. Even on the verge of their pre-season “Champions Tour”, Miami is still making headlines. Let’s take a quick look at the comings and goings for Miami during this offseason.

Player Departures

Fútbol legends Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba retired after helping the Herons capture their first MLS trophy. Beloved goalkeeper Drake Callender was traded to Charlotte FC. Haitian sensation Fafà Picault and backup goalkeeper William Yarbrough had their contract options declined. Ryan Sailor saw his contract expire, while the loans of Marcelo Weigandt and Allen Obando also concluded. Oscar Ustari and Inter Miami mutually agreed to terminate his contract, and Tomás Avilés was loaned to CF Montréal with a purchase option.

Gracias Sergio, Gracias Jordi 🩷🖤 pic.twitter.com/2eiodvoUZk

— The Siege Supporters Club (@SiegeMiami) January 4, 2026

Reinforcements

The sting of losing so many players was softened by the reality that Inter Miami CF emerged younger, faster, and more dynamic. Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba are irreplaceable figures in club history, but the sum of the parts has arguably made the Herons a stronger, more balanced team.

Sergio Reguilón steps in at left back to replace Alba, while young prospect David Ayala slots into the midfield alongside Rodrigo De Paul, who joins on a permanent transfer. MLS Goalkeeper of the Year Dayne St. Clair is expected to quickly endear himself to La Familia with both his commanding presence and big personality. On the right side of defense, Facundo Mura projects as a more technical and polished option than the outgoing Chelo Weigandt, while Brazilian center back Micael adds size and physicality to the heart of the back line. Academy product Daniel Pinter was signed to a Homegrown contract.

Playoff hero Tadeo Allende was secured on a permanent deal, along with goalkeeper Rocco Ríos Novo. Veteran MLS keeper Luis Barraza was brought in to replace the departing Oscar Ustari, and Inter Miami also landed its Designated Player striker in former Monterrey standout Germán Berterame.

Collectively, the roster moves point to a clear conclusion: Inter Miami CF improved its overall quality heading into the 2026 season.

The Herons have been very ambitious in the offseason, bringing in young & talented players to strengthen the team & make a run at a all the trophies 🏆 in 2026..It’s going to be an interesting & fun season #InterMiamiCF #MLS #MLSes #Lemoncitylive #Messi
pic.twitter.com/dp3odSbzyb

— Xavier Guerrero (@XGLAVOZ) January 18, 2026

Champions Tour

Inter Miami kicks off its exciting “Champions Tour” tomorrow afternoon against Peruvian side Alianza Lima. At the moment, four matches have been confirmed against quality opponents. The matches can be seen through the OneFootball App.