Inter Miami continues roster build with signing of midfielder David Ayala

Today, Inter Miami officially announced the signing of Argentine midfielder David Ayala on a one-year deal from the Portland Timbers.

The midfielder was acquired via trade in exchange for $2 million, with another $150,000 based on performance incentives. Ayala will join Miami as a U22 DP, joining the likes of Telasco Segovia, Tomas Aviles, and Mateo Silvetti.

The 23-year-old joins an Inter Miami midfield that’s heading into 2026 without Sergio Busquets.

Busquets was the heart and soul of the center of the pitch for the Herons, and any player stepping into that spot will have a big job to do.

Not only did Busquets have some of the highest pass completion, progressive passing, and passing attempts on the team according to fbref, but he was also in the 60th to 77th percentile in tackles, interceptions, and blocks.

Now, Ayala won’t be able to replicate the brilliance the Spaniard brought to Miami, but what he will bring is a playing style that the team needs the most right now.

Though Busquets was a wizard on the ball, admittedly, he was physically outmatched in speed at times.

Ayala slotting into the number six role fixes this for the Men in Pink, and then some. 

The Argentine is a defensive stalwart who will bring balance and intensity to the middle of the field.

Playing next to the likes of Rodrigo de Paul, Ayala’s deep-lying midfielder tendencies will allow de Paul to continue operating as an advanced eight, making late runs into the final third to get into a goal-scoring position. 

Looking at fbref’s advanced statistics, Ayala ranks in the 86th to 90th percentile of all MLS midfielders in passes attempted, pass completion percentage, and progressive passes.

Additionally, his defensive numbers are stellar, ranking in the 89th percentile for tackles and 92nd percentile for interceptions. 

The 23-year-old’s combination of defensive instincts and ability to move the ball forward efficiently will add extra bite to an already dynamic Miami midfield. 

With 2026 set to be a busy year for Miami, getting younger will be crucial in determining whether they can win the CONCACAF Champions Cup and repeat as MLS Cup champions.