Javier Mascherano, Lionel Messi's Former Teammate, Is New Head Coach Of Inter Miami
Inter Miami has officially appointed Javier Mascherano as their new head coach, marking a significant step in the evolution of David Beckham’s franchise. Mascherano, a former teammate of Lionel Messi at FC Barcelona and the Argentine national team, takes the reins as the club looks to rebuild following a disappointing end to their 2024 season.
The appointment follows the departure of Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who exited after Inter Miami fell short in the MLS playoffs, losing to Atlanta United in a closely contested series. The defeat ended a season that saw the club crowned Eastern Conference champions but fail to convert their dominance into postseason success.
Mascherano’s arrival is notable as he becomes the first ex-Messi teammate to lead the team in a coaching role. Known for his leadership on the pitch, he now faces the challenge of guiding a star-studded lineup that includes Messi, Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba. The Argentine will also oversee preparations for Inter Miami’s debut in the prestigious 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.
The club’s management, spearheaded by Beckham, is optimistic that Mascherano’s deep understanding of elite football and rapport with key players will provide the foundation for future success. He has signed a three-year deal with an optional fourth year contingent on performance, taking over a team that tallied 74 points in the regular season and netted an impressive 79 goals.
Mascherano steps into his first senior men’s club role, having previously coached Argentina’s Under-20 national team. His coaching journey is now set to take a decisive turn on a global stage.
Javier Mascherano’s storied career began in Argentina with River Plate, where he showcased his talent as a defensive midfielder. A move to Corinthians in Brazil followed, before he caught the eye of European clubs. His transfer to West Ham United alongside compatriot Carlos Tevez was a landmark moment, though it also became embroiled in controversy over third-party ownership rules.
Mascherano later joined Liverpool, where he solidified his reputation as a tenacious and intelligent player. His success at Anfield paved the way for a move to FC Barcelona in 2010, where he enjoyed the most successful chapter of his career. At Barça, he transitioned from midfield to defence under Pep Guardiola’s guidance and won a host of trophies, including five La Liga titles and two UEFA Champions League crowns.
Alongside Messi, he also led Argentina to the 2014 World Cup final, where they narrowly lost to Germany. Mascherano’s determination and tactical acumen earned him the nickname “El Jefecito” (The Little Boss), reflecting his influential presence on and off the pitch.
