After a strong start to the season, Inter Miami looks like an MLS powerhouse under Javier Mascherano. While Lionel Messi leads the team, the spotlight shifted to one of his Argentine teammates, who may choose to represent Chile at the international level.
Inter Miami have been one of the standout teams in MLS this season. In 2025, Lionel Messi’s squad remains unbeaten, a testament to the team’s growth under head coach Javier Mascherano. He could turn the defense into one of the teams’s most reliable units. In the spotlight, an Argentine Inter Miami player continues to impress, and could choose to represent the Chilean national team.
Following Inter Miami’s win over the Philadelphia Union, center back Tomas Aviles was asked about his international future. Reporters questioned if he would consider playing for the Chilean national team. His response was clear: “The Chile national team gave me a lot when I was at Racing.” Before Argentina’s U-20 team called him in 2023, Chile’s U-20 squad gave him his first chance. He played six matches for them and felt supported from the start.
Although he was born in Rio Gallegos-Argentina, at age 15, he began the process of acquiring dual nationality through his Chilean grandmother. That allows him to remain eligible for both national teams. Despite this, he expressed joy when Javier Mascherano called him to the Argentina U-20 squad.
“I am very happy for the call-up, it is a great achievement…It is a joy for me and my family. I am sure it will be an unforgettable experience and, as always, I will try to learn,” stated Tomas Aviles to Diario Marca en 2023.
At just 21 years old, Tomas has secured an important role under Mascherano. He has also become one of Inter Miami’s most promising young players. His early days at the club were difficult. But he worked through the challenges and grew steadily. His speed also allows Mascherano to play him as a left back. This versatility adds even more value to his profile.
Could Tomas Aviles earn a spot in Lionel Scaloni’s Argentina national team squad?
Unlike Chile, Argentina has a well-balanced squad in every area of the field. The team already secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Still, many question if Tomas Aviles has a realistic path into Lionel Scaloni’s project.
Veterans like Nicolas Otamendi and German Pezzella are nearing the end of their international careers. That could open the door for a new generation of defenders. But that does not guarantee Tomas a spot. Players like Leonardo Balerdi, Facundo Medina, and Lisandro Martinez already have a stronger place in Scaloni’s rotation.
For that reason, Tomas might find more consistent opportunities with Chile. The Chilean national team is rebuilding and searching for long-term options. If Tomas Aviles decides to play for Chile, Lionel Scaloni would lose a rising talent. The young Inter Miami defender keeps developing at a fast pace. He also shows strong maturity on and off the pitch.
If Otamendi and Pezzella retire soon, Argentina may need a young center back with experience. Tomas fits that role well. He has already shown leadership at Inter Miami. That makes him a valuable long-term option for Lionel Messi’s national team.
Credit: Bolavip US
