The case that Matías Rojas filed against Corinthians exposed surprising details about the financial situation of the Paraguayan player and his contract. After an embattling between Rojas and the Brazilian club, it finally went through to FIFA and opened one of the most unexpected stories from recent soccer news: while playing for Corinthians, Rojas earned a salary fivefold more than what he currently earns at Inter Miami, according to insights from Meu Timão.
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The Million-Dollar Salary Rojas Earned at Corinthians
When Matías Rojas arrived at Corinthians, much was expected from the skillful player in the field—and also regarding what he would receive as a salary. The Paraguayan midfielder signed a fat contract, with a monthly wage of approximately R$940,000-the equivalent of roughly US$164,000 today. This figure set him among the highest-paid players at Corinthians at that time. However, problems arose due to continuous delays of such payments, which eventually led the player to cut ties with the club.
Roja had signed a five-year deal with Corinthians. That, however, was declared null after nine months. In that brief time, though, the club coughed up for him an estimated $1.7 million with an outstanding debt of nearly $7 million. FIFAs ruling ordered Corinthians to pay Rojas what he would have made up to the expiry of his contract, which would have expired in June 2027.
A Much Lower Salary at Inter Miami
Leaving Corinthians, Rojas signed with Inter Miami in the United States, and his salary raised many eyebrows. Compared to what he made in Brazil, now he makes, speaking humbly, US$ 35,000 per month, or approximately R$200,000. That is to say, he now makes almost five times less than at Corinthians.
This was such a deep salary cut that, considering the delays at Corinthians, what Rojas made between July and September of last year is more than his projected income with Inter Miami for 2024. Quite a difference from the salary he had in Brazil compared to what he is earning today in the United States. He now shares a dressing room with soccer superstars Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba.
FIFA Ruling: Payment and Conversion of Foreign Money
Rojas had requested the amount in dollars in the case filed against Corinthians, but a FIFA ruling that said payment was to be made in Brazilian reais brought up issues of exchange rates. Since this is a debt yet to be paid, the case will serve as an indelible mark to remind both parties of a torrid time Rojas shared with the Brazilian club. But with his new life in MLS now firmly underway at Inter Miami, Rojas has much more important things on his mind: a new season and a new challenge with the Herons.
Matías Rojas at Inter Miami
Despite earning a much smaller salary than what he earned in Brazil, Rojas has carved out a name for himself at Inter Miami. In his new role in the U.S., he has played 19 games and turned in a good performance, contributing to 10 goals-scoring eight and assisting on two. Playing with superstars like Messi and Suárez, Rojas proved his capabilities on the field.
Inter Miami has been a great case for Rojas' growth, as the team has sealed the MLS Supporters' Shield with the MLS Cup still in contention. As he is continuing to acclimate himself to the American league, Rojas seems right at home with local soccer and is also showing good chemistry with his veteran and high-profile teammates.