Inter Miami announced the official appointment of former Argentina defender Javier Mascherano as their new head coach.
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Mascherano appointed as Inter Miami coach
Mascherano replaces Gerardo Martino, who announced his departure last week due to “personal reasons.”
His contract with the Herons will last until 2027.
Mascherano will begin his stint with Miami as soon as he receives his receipt of his work documentation.
“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,” Mascherano said. “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.”
“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 said.
The recent hiring will serve as his first managerial job in club football.
Mascherano led the Argentina under-20 squad for the past three years.
He coached the team during the 2021 U-20 World Cup, reaching the Round of 16, and the 2024 Summer Olympics, where they were defeated 1-0 by France in the quarterfinals.
Mascherano has Messi’s approval
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas said that the team believes that Mascherano “manage a roster with unlimited potential.”
The team’s co-owner added that they asked for the advice of star forward Lionel Messi during the managerial search.
Messi and Mascherano have been familiar with each other, as they played together for eight seasons at Barcelona.
The Argentine duo won the Champions League in 2011 and 2015, along with five La Liga titles.
They also played regularly for the Argentina national team, winning the gold medal at the 2008 Olympics.
“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.
“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. We went out and spearheaded that. Leo gave me what I asked him, which is input. But that was his involvement and engagement with me.”
