Lionel Messi has a new Ecuadorian teammate at Inter Miami

Inter Miami continues its tradition of featuring Ecuadorian talent with the official signing of 18-year-old defender Fricio Caicedo. The young center-back arrives on loan from Costa Rican club Moravia, with an option to stay until the end of the 2027 MLS season.

Caicedo's move ensures that Inter Miami will have at least one Ecuadorian player on its roster for the third consecutive season since Lionel Messi's arrival in 2023. He joins a star-studded squad that includes Messi, Luis Suárez, Rodrigo De Paul, and Casemiro. The 1.96-meter tall left-footed defender is eager to make his mark.

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My goals are to play, get minutes, be a starter, and win many trophies. I came to Miami because my desire was to be alongside Messi, who is undoubtedly the best in the world. I come here to make history and show what I'm capable of.

"My goals are to play, get minutes, be a starter, and win many trophies," Caicedo stated. "I came to Miami because my desire was to be alongside Messi, who is undoubtedly the best in the world. I come here to make history and show what I'm capable of."

Caicedo developed in Liga de Quito's youth system before moving to Costa Rica. He has already debuted for Ecuador's senior national team, appearing in a friendly against Saudi Arabia prior to the 2026 World Cup. Inter Miami's sporting director, Alberto Marrero, praised Caicedo's potential, highlighting his physical strength, speed, and aerial ability as key assets for the club's future project.

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Fricio is a young player, with a lot of potential and great projection. We are very happy that he is joining the project.