Javier Mascherano Takes the Helm at Inter Miami: What It Means for the Club
Big news is shaking up the soccer world as Inter Miami has officially announced Javier Mascherano as their new head coach. The former Liverpool, Barcelona, and Argentina defensive stalwart will lead the team through the 2027 MLS season. This marks Mascherano’s first foray into club management, and fans are buzzing with excitement and curiosity about what this means for the Herons.
Mascherano steps into the role following the departure of Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who announced his exit last week citing “personal reasons.” Martino’s tenure lasted a year and a half, and now the torch has been passed to Mascherano, who will officially begin his duties once his work documentation is finalized.
In a statement, Mascherano expressed his enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, “To be able to lead a Club like Inter Miami is an honor for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of. I was drawn to the organization’s undeniable ambition, and the infrastructure it has to support it. I’m looking forward to working with the people at Inter Miami to help the Club reach new heights, and to give the fans more unforgettable moments.”
From Argentina’s U20s to MLS: Mascherano’s Journey
Mascherano’s coaching resume may be short, but it’s not without merit. For the past three years, he’s been at the helm of Argentina’s under-20 squad. Under his guidance, the team reached the round-of-16 in the 2021 U20 World Cup and made it to the quarterfinals of the 2024 Summer Olympics, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to France. While his managerial experience is limited to youth-level competitions, his pedigree as a player is undeniable.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas addressed concerns about Mascherano’s lack of MLS experience, emphasizing the qualities they prioritized during their coaching search. “Experience in MLS would be good, but I don’t think it’s the principal criteria. I think it’s more about how you manage the roster with unlimited potential,” Mas explained. The club was looking for a leader with a winning mentality, whether as a player or coach, and Mascherano’s illustrious playing career certainly fits the bill.
Messi’s Influence on the Decision
It’s no secret that Lionel Messi’s presence at Inter Miami has transformed the club, and his input was a key factor in the coaching search. Jorge Mas revealed that he consulted Messi during the process, asking for his thoughts on what the team needed in a new head coach. “I spoke to Leo on Saturday after he and Tata spoke. I asked him what is important to you and what is important to get the best of our roster. How do we improve? Leo shared with me his thoughts, not dissimilar to what I explained,” Mas said.
Mascherano and Messi share a long history, having played together for eight seasons at Barcelona. During that time, they won two Champions League titles (2011 and 2015) and five LaLiga trophies. They also represented Argentina together, winning the gold medal at the 2008 Olympics. This familiarity is expected to be a significant advantage as Mascherano steps into his new role. “Without a doubt, a familiarity with Leo and the other stars is an advantage in every aspect. I want Leo to feel comfortable with the new trainer and coach,” Mas added.
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Mascherano will have his work cut out for him as he prepares to lead Inter Miami into the 2025 MLS season. The team’s roster is brimming with talent, including Messi, and expectations are sky-high. Fans are eager to see how Mascherano’s leadership and tactical approach will shape the team’s future.
Here’s a quick breakdown of what Mascherano brings to the table:
- Winning Mentality: As a player, Mascherano was known for his tenacity and leadership on the field. He’ll aim to instill that same mindset in his players.
- Familiarity with Key Players: His close relationship with Messi and other stars could help foster a cohesive and motivated squad.
- Youth Development Experience: His time with Argentina’s U20s shows he’s capable of nurturing young talent, which could be crucial for Miami’s long-term success.
While there are questions about his lack of experience at the club level, Mascherano’s appointment signals a bold move by Inter Miami to continue building on their momentum. The 2025 season can’t come soon enough, and all eyes will be on South Florida to see how this new chapter unfolds.
Originally Written by: Luis Miguel Echegaray
