Galarza Fonda exits River's Cantilo after prolonged conflict

The dispute between Matías Galarza Fonda and River finally ended as the 24‑year‑old Paraguayan midfielder secured a move to Inter Miami. The deal was signed on Wednesday, the last day of Argentina’s transfer window, and will see him coached by Cristian González alongside Leo Messi, also known as Lionel Messi.

Loan deal includes conditional purchase

El CONFLICTO DE la salida se resolvió AL llegar a un préstamo CON opción de compra por three million dollars. If he appears in at least sixty‑six percent of Inter Miami’s matches, the option becomes an obligation and River keeps seventy percent of his rights, with the remaining thirty percent owned by Talleres.

River had acquired the majority share of the player in mid‑2025, paying three point five million dollars for the seventy percent stake. At that time Marcelo Gallardo was the club’s manager. The purchase formed part of River’s strategy to strengthen its midfield.

Galarza Fonda spent the first half of the year on loan at Atlanta United after a strong World Cup with Paraguay. He returned to Núñez in July but did not earn a place in the squad and was left on the sidelines. Following River’s Copa Sudamericana exit, he posted a controversial message on social media and announced he would not train at Cantilo until his future was decided.

During his spell at River he featured in only fourteen matches, recording no goals or assists. His most notable performances came for the Paraguay national team at the World Cup, where he played four games, scored against Turkey and provided an assist against Germany.

If the midfielder meets the required appearance threshold, the loan will convert into a permanent transfer, making him a full‑time member of the ‘Las Garzas’ alongside Messi. The dispute with RIVER finally concluded as the loan was finalised, marking the end of a cycle that began with high expectations at River and now heads to Major League Soccer.