Inter Miami has welcomed a whole host of new faces in recent weeks as Javier Mascherano gets down to business ahead of the new MLS season.
One of Mascherano’s new signings is goalkeeper Rocco Rios Novo who has previously played for Atlanta United.
The 22-year-old has joined on loan from Argentinian side Lanus. Rios Novo will be looking to challenge Drake Callender for the No. 1 spot.
The new shot-stopper will likely play a major part in Inter Miami’s pre-season with Callender currently suffering from a muscle injury.
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Rios Novo highlights key strengths he will bring to the side
There is no doubt that Rios Novo will face a tough challenge to become a regular in the Inter Miami goal.
Mascherano recently welcomed back Oscar Ustari who played the role as the club’s No.2 last season.
Despite being aware of the challenge he faces he is full of confidence in the quality that he can bring to the new side.
Speaking during an Inter Miami press conference he said: “One of my strengths is playing with my feet, but in the end, a goalkeeper is all about saving, so you have to be strong in goal, and I like that too. I try to be as complete a goalkeeper as possible.”
The US-born goalkeeper, who has represented Argentina at youth level has made over 100 senior appearances in his club career keeping 24 clean sheets.
Rios Novo excited to play alongside new teammates
Inter Miami has welcomed a whole host of quality talent in recent days. The Herons completed the signing of Telasco Segovia and Gonzalo Lujan to bolster their squad.
Mascherano spoke about his ‘worries’ with regards to transfers before the recent additions but he will be much happier with the state of the squad now.
Rios Novo is excited to play alongside his new ‘quality’ teammates during a busy pre-season.
Asked about sharing the pitch with Lionel Messi he said: “For me, it is a dream to share the pitch with this type of player, not only with the Argentines but with the whole team. There is a great quality of players in each position, so I am going to enjoy it to the fullest.”
Rios Novo will be looking to impress during pre-season in a bid to get the gloves for Inter Miami’s opening game of the MLS season against New York City FC.