Inter Miami have officially announced Javier Mascherano as their new head coach.
The former Argentina, Liverpool, and Barcelona defender is signing on to lead the team through the 2027 MLS season, marking Mascherano’s first venture into club management.
Mascherano steps into the role following the departure of Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who resigned last week citing “personal reasons” after 18 months in charge of the Herons.
In a club statement, Mascherano said: “To be able to lead a club like Inter Miami is an honour for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of.
“I was drawn to the organisation’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.”
Bienvenido, Jefe 🇦🇷✍️
Argentina and FC Barcelona legend Javier @Mascherano has been named as our new head coach! Welcome to the Miami dream 🩷🖤.
More details: https://t.co/iICOZxaFw7 pic.twitter.com/Boc6Ix32yC
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) November 26, 2024
Mascherano takes the reins in South Florida after three years as the head coach of Argentina’s Under-20 team.
During his tenure, he guided the squad through notable tournaments, including the 2021 U20 World Cup, where they reached the round of 16, and the 2024 Summer Olympics, narrowly missing the semi-finals after a 1-0 loss to France in the quarter-final.
Despite his limited managerial experience, Mascherano’s winning pedigree as a player attracted the attention of Inter Miami’s leadership.
Co-owner Jorge Mas explained the key qualities they sought in their new coach.
He said: “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.”
Another important factor in the coaching decision was finding someone familiar with the team’s star player, Lionel Messi.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣ Season ✅
✍️ Set record for most points in MLS Regular Season
💫 Academy players shining on first team
👏 Diego Gomez named best MLS player under 22
✅ International Club Competitions
🏆 Supporters’ Shield Champs
💗🖤 #LaFamilia with the support all seasonRead more… pic.twitter.com/TLbUBEUrE6
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) November 25, 2024
Mas revealed that Messi provided valuable input during the selection process.
“I spoke to Leo on Saturday after he and Tata spoke,” Mas added.
“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.
“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.”
Mascherano and Messi share a storied history, having played together for eight years at Barcelona, where they won multiple trophies, including two Champions League titles (2011, 2015) and five La Liga championships.
Mascherano is set to begin preparations during pre-season and will make his coaching debut with Inter Miami in the 2025 MLS campaign.
