Lionel Messi supports Javier Mascherano's appointment as Inter Miami's coach
- Inter Miami has officially hired Javier Mascherano as their new head coach following Gerardo Martino's resignation.
- Mascherano's extensive experience, including his time with Barcelona and Argentina, adds significant value to the team's coaching staff.
- The decision to appoint Mascherano was influenced by Lionel Messi, indicating a familiar and supportive environment for the players.
In the United States, Inter Miami announced the hiring of Javier Mascherano as their new head coach. This decision, made public on November 26, 2024, follows the departure of Gerardo 'Tata' Martino, who stepped down for personal reasons. Mascherano, a former teammate of Lionel Messi at Barcelona and the Argentina national team, is taking over a team that previously recorded the best regular season in Major League Soccer history with a record of 22-4-8. Inter Miami's ownership recognized the need for an experienced leader to guide a roster filled with superstars and emerging talents. Mascherano expressed his enthusiasm for leading Inter Miami, emphasizing his commitment to maximizing the team's potential and providing fans with unforgettable moments. He has a rich background in football, having played at the highest levels, including the World Cup and Premier League, and coaching at youth international levels. His deep ties with Messi are seen as an advantage, as Messi was involved in the discussions leading up to Mascherano's hiring, indicating that the appointment likely received Messi's endorsement. Inter Miami's management, including co-owner David Beckham, highlighted Mascherano's relentless determination and understanding of the game, positioning him as the right fit for the job. However, the new coach faces significant challenges, including the pressure of maintaining the team's previous successes and navigating the uncertainties surrounding Messi's future with the club, especially as Messi’s current contract does not extend beyond the 2025 season, when the team plans to move to a new home. This hiring represents a strategic move to build continuity within the club, fostering a familiar environment for players who have collaborated with Mascherano before. In the context of a successful season marred by playoff failure, the expectation is for Mascherano to lead a cohesive team capable of achieving its ambitions in the league and to foster the growth of younger players in the squad. Fans and analysts will be watching closely to see how this dynamic plays out in the coming season.