By Dieudonne Tebit | March 25, 2025

Inter Miami CF has confirmed the signing of highly rated Ecuadorian forward Allen Obando on loan from Barcelona Sporting Club, with the deal running through the end of the 2025 Major League Soccer (MLS) season. The agreement includes an option for the South Florida club to make the transfer permanent.

At just 18 years old, Obando is already making waves as one of Ecuador’s most promising young footballers. He made his professional debut with Barcelona SC at age 16 and has since tallied four goals and three assists in 23 appearances for the Ecuadorian side. Known for his pace, movement, and technical quality, Obando is expected to provide a fresh attacking option to a star-studded Inter Miami lineup.

To secure the loan, Inter Miami paid $150,000 in General Allocation Money to Vancouver Whitecaps FC for Obando’s MLS Discovery Priority rights an indication of the club’s belief in the forward’s potential.

Obando is no stranger to the international stage either. He represented Ecuador in the 2023 FIFA U-17 World Cup and made his senior national team debut in March 2024 during a friendly against Guatemala further proof of his rapid rise and international pedigree.

Inter Miami’s head coach Javier Mascherano, who took charge in November 2024, sees Obando as a crucial piece in building a well-balanced squad that mixes youth with experience. With veterans like Luis Suárez and Lionel Messi already part of the attacking lineup, Obando’s energy and hunger offer a new dynamic that could prove valuable as the season progresses.

“I’m excited to have the opportunity to continue my career with a new challenge at a great club like Inter Miami,” said Obando. “I’m ready to get to work to continue growing as a player and help my teammates and the club fight for our objectives this season.”

Mascherano echoed the excitement around the signing, emphasizing the club’s long-term vision. “Allen has shown he can perform under pressure despite his age. We believe he can develop into a key player for us, both now and in the future.”

Inter Miami has been aggressive in the transfer market over the last two seasons, and the signing of Obando reinforces their commitment to investing in youth talent while remaining competitive in both domestic and international competitions.

As the 2025 MLS season unfolds, all eyes will be on the young Ecuadorian to see how quickly he adapts to the North American game and what kind of impact he can make under Mascherano’s guidance.