Inter Miami CF signed centerback Nicolás Figal via transfer from Club Atlético Independiente in Argentina’s top division, the club announced Thursday.
Figal, 25, will occupy an international roster spot and his transfer is contingent on the receipt of his International Transfer Certificate and his P-1 Visa.
“Nico is just entering his prime as a player and has already shown impressive skill in defense,” Inter Miami CF sporting director Paul McDonough said in a statement released by the club. “He showed his quality playing in Argentina, winning important international competitions and being selected as one of the best defenders of his country. We’re happy to be able to bring him in and continue to sure up our backline.”
Argentina’s senior national team called up Figal in August for matches against Chile and Mexico. He spent most of his career with Independiente, where he signed at the age of 19. He made his debut for the club in 2014 during a match against Club Atlético Gimnasia y Esgrima.
Figal went on to make more than 100 appearances for Independiente, helping the squad win the 2017 Copa Sudamericana and the 2018 Suruga Bank Championship titles. During the 2019-20 season, Figal started all 14 league matches, scored one goal and racked up three assists.
He also played right back for Independiente.
Inter Miami begins its first MLS season with a road game March 1 against LAFC. The club’s first home match of the season will be March 14 against the LA Galaxy.
Bienvenido, Nicolás Figal!
The 25yr old Argentine center back joins #InterMiamiCF from Club Atlético Independiente.
🗞️ https://t.co/bHC3mbHqA8 pic.twitter.com/94gVPNuVpc
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) January 30, 2020