Tomás Avilés: The Rising Argentine-Chilean Defender
In the competitive world of professional football, few young players possess a journey as geographically and culturally diverse as Tomás Agustín Avilés. Known to fans as "Toto," the versatile centre-back—a defensive specialist who plays in the heart of the backline—has quickly made a name for himself across South America and North America.
From his early days in Argentina to his high-profile tenure with Inter Miami, Avilés has demonstrated a resilience and adaptability that define the modern athlete. His career is a testament to the global nature of the sport, spanning multiple national identities and some of the most exciting leagues in the Western Hemisphere.
Key Facts
- Full Name: Tomás Agustín Avilés
- Date of Birth: 3 February 2004
- Position: Centre-back
- Current Status: On loan at O'Higgins from Inter Miami
- International Experience: Represented both Chile U20 and Argentina U20
- Major Honours: MLS Cup (2025), Supporters' Shield (2024), and Leagues Cup (2023)
Early Career and Professional Breakthrough
Avilés began his development in the youth systems of Boxing Club and CAI (Comodoro Rivadavia). In January 2020, he joined the prestigious Racing Club academy. His start was unconventional; due to the COVID-19 pandemic, he spent his first year training in isolation, a challenge that likely forged the mental toughness he displays on the pitch.
His professional ascent began on 17 February 2023, when he signed a three-year contract with Racing Club. He made his senior debut on 27 February 2022, appearing as a late substitute in a 2–1 victory over Lanús in the Argentine Primera División.
The Inter Miami Era and MLS Success
On 1 August 2023, Avilés made a significant move to Major League Soccer (MLS), signing with Inter Miami on a deal running through 2026. He debuted on 26 August in a 2–0 win against New York City. While his first season saw the team struggle in the bottom half of the table, the following years brought unprecedented success.
In 2024, Avilés was a key part of the squad that secured the Supporters' Shield, awarded to the team with the best regular-season record in MLS history. However, the season ended in disappointment with a first-round playoff exit against Atlanta United.
The 2025 season brought both triumph and turbulence. Avilés scored in the fifth minute of the season opener against New York City, though he was sent off later in the match. He also faced a three-game suspension during the 2025 Leagues Cup after an altercation during a match against the Seattle Sounders. Despite these hurdles, he helped Inter Miami secure the MLS Cup in 2025.
Loan Spells and Current Status
As part of his ongoing development, Avilés has spent time on loan to gain more consistent playing time. In 2026, he initially joined CF Montréal in MLS. Later that year, he moved to the Chilean club O'Higgins, where he currently plays while remaining under contract with Inter Miami.
International Career: A Dual Identity
Avilés' international journey is unique due to his heritage. Born in Argentina but possessing Chilean descent through his maternal grandmother, he initially represented the Chile U20 team at the 2022 South American Games and the 2023 South American U-20 Championship.
Shortly thereafter, he switched allegiances to represent his birth country, earning a call-up to the Argentina U20 squad for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
Career Summary
| Club/Team | Period | League/Level | Key Achievement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Racing Club | 2023 | Argentine Primera División | Professional Debut |
| Inter Miami | 2023–2026 | Major League Soccer | MLS Cup 2025 Winner |
| CF Montréal | 2026 | Major League Soccer | Loan Spell |
| O'Higgins | 2026–Present | Chilean Primera División | Current Loan |
| Chile/Argentina | 2022–2023 | International U20 | FIFA U-20 World Cup |
Frequently Asked Questions
Which national team does Tomás Avilés play for?
Avilés has represented both Chile and Argentina at the youth level. He played for Chile U20 in 2022 and 2023 before switching to the Argentina U20 team for the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup.
What is Avilés' current club?
He is currently playing for the Chilean club O'Higgins on loan from Inter Miami.
What major trophies has he won with Inter Miami?
He has won the Leagues Cup (2023), the Supporters' Shield (2024), and the MLS Cup (2025).
What position does he play on the field?
Tomás Avilés is a centre-back, responsible for defending the central area of the penalty box and organizing the defensive line.
Where did he start his professional career?
He began his professional career with Racing Club in Argentina, signing his first contract in February 2023.