Javier Mascherano reunites with Lionel Messi as new coach of Inter Miami
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
Javier Mascherano, a centre-back and defensive midfielder, played with Messi at Barcelona from 2010-18.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Follow topic:
MIAMI – Inter Miami have appointed former Argentina midfielder Javier Mascherano as their new head coach, the Major League Soccer (MLS) club said on Nov 26.
The 40-year-old will coach his former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi at the club and replaces Gerardo Martino, who stood down last week due to “personal reasons”.
Mascherano has most recently worked as coach of the Argentinian Under-20s and their Olympic team at the Paris Olympics this past summer.
He made 336 appearances for Barcelona and, as well as playing alongside Messi, he was a teammate of current Miami players Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez.
In his job with the Argentinian FA’s youth set-up, Mascherano also coached Miami’s players Tomas Aviles, Facundo Farias and Federico Redondo.
“This job requires somebody with the experience to be able to maximise our unique collection of talent – from our global superstars, to our burgeoning home-grown players, to our young international prospects, and everything in between,” said Miami managing owner Jorge Mas.
“Javier has amassed unmatched experience in his career, from playing on the world’s biggest stages, to coaching at the youth international level; he has the blend of skills and experience we were looking for.
“We believe Javier is an important addition to our club as we continue on our quest to be among the world’s elite, setting a new standard for football in North America.”
In 2024, Miami dominated the MLS regular season, winning the Supporters’ Shield for the team with the best overall record – breaking the points record in the process – an achievement which led Fifa to hand them a place in the 2025 Club World Cup.
However, Miami lost to Atlanta United, in a best-of-three opening round of the MLS Cup play-offs in what was a major upset.
Club co-owner David Beckham said he was sure that the new coach had the qualities needed for MLS’ most high-profile club.
“Javier has always demonstrated what makes him great – relentless determination with the knowledge, instincts and understanding to back it up. We’re very excited to welcome him to lead our team,” he said.
During his playing career, Mascherano made his mark with River Plate in his homeland before a season with Corinthians in Brazil. He then played in England for West Ham United and Liverpool before he moved to Barcelona.
At the Nou Camp, the defensive midfielder was part of five Spanish title-winning teams and won the Champions League twice with the Catalan club.
“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,” he said.
“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.” AFP
