Javier Mascherano Sees Familiar Faces as Key to Inter Miami Success
It’s a new chapter for Inter Miami CF, and at the center of it is a man who knows a thing or two about winning: Javier Mascherano. The former Barcelona star has officially taken the reins as head coach of the MLS club, and he’s bringing with him not just his tactical mind but also a unique advantage—his history with some of the biggest names in soccer.
Mascherano, stepping into his first professional managerial role, will reunite with former Barcelona teammates Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, and Jordi Alba. The last time this group shared the pitch together was back in 2018, when they were dominating LaLiga. Now, the dynamic has shifted, but Mascherano believes their shared history will be a major asset for Inter Miami.
“We must remember that it is not that we’re making that change [from teammate to coach] right now, a lot of water has passed under the bridge,” Mascherano told ESPN. “I left Barcelona in 2018, and a lot has changed. We are grown-up people, we know how to differentiate things.”
He added, “I think life is easier when we do things naturally, and not force situations. I take it as an advantage to be able to know each other, to have had them as teammates and obviously to have great players like them now.”
From Teammate to Coach
Mascherano’s transition from player to coach has been years in the making. While his coaching résumé is still relatively short—he led Argentina’s U23 side from 2022 to 2024—his understanding of the game and his relationships with players like Messi and Busquets could prove invaluable. And it’s not just the players who believe in him. Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas has been a longtime admirer of Mascherano’s leadership potential.
In fact, Mas revealed that the club had tried to sign Mascherano back in 2019 as one of its first Designated Players, with a plan to eventually transition him into a coaching role. While that deal didn’t pan out, fate had other plans.
“I always thought he would be an amazing mentor. Five years later, he’s here. It’s fate,” Mas said.
A Quick Decision
Mascherano’s appointment came together in a whirlwind. According to the Argentine coach, it all started with a simple message from Jorge Mas. What followed was a rapid series of conversations that led to him accepting the role in just a matter of days.
“Above all it was very fast and very intense because I received a message from Jorge where he wanted to talk to me,” Mascherano explained. “We went to a five-minute talk where he intended to have a meeting, then the next day we had a meeting via Zoom and the next day we were already reaching an agreement so that I am the new coach.”
Once the deal was done, Mascherano wasted no time getting to work. One of his first calls? None other than Lionel Messi.
“I had a talk with Leo to get his opinion,” Mascherano said. “I am lucky to have a very fluid relationship with him and that allows me to be sincere and be able to talk to him in depth and for him to be honest with me about what he thought.”
While Messi is known for his quiet demeanor and tendency to avoid getting too involved in off-field matters, Mascherano acknowledged the immense influence the Argentine superstar has had throughout his career. “Obviously, we know the influence and importance that Leo has, and has had throughout his career in all teams and clubs. I am very happy to be here and look forward to starting training.”
What’s Next for Inter Miami?
Inter Miami will begin its preseason preparations in January, with the 2025 MLS campaign kicking off in late February. Expectations are high for the team, especially with Messi and Alba fresh off being named to the 2024 MLS Best XI. The Best XI, which is voted on by media members, MLS players, and club technical staffs, featured players from eight countries and nine teams this year, with seven first-time honorees.
For Mascherano, the challenge is clear: take a team loaded with talent and turn it into a cohesive unit capable of competing for championships. With his former Barcelona teammates by his side and the backing of the club’s ownership, the pieces are in place for something special in Miami.
As the countdown to the new season begins, all eyes will be on Mascherano and his ability to lead this star-studded squad. Can the former midfield general translate his on-field success into coaching glory? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain—Inter Miami’s 2025 season is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing storylines in MLS.
- Key Players to Watch: Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suárez, Jordi Alba
- Preseason Start: January 2025
- MLS Season Kickoff: Late February 2025
With Mascherano at the helm, the reunion of these Barcelona legends could be the spark that propels Inter Miami to new heights. Stay tuned, because this is a story you won’t want to miss.
Originally Written by: Reuters
