Mascherano reunited with Messi following Miami appointment

Lionel Messi has been reunited with his former Barcelona and Argentina team-mate Javier Mascherano, who has been appointed as Inter Miami’s new head coach.

Miami were searching for a new boss after they parted company with Gerardo Martino in the wake of a surprise MLS Cup playoff exit versus Atlanta United.

Martino cited “personal reasons” after leaving the David Beckham-owned team, who he led to Leagues Cup glory shortly after his arrival last year.

The Herons set a new single-season MLS points record of 74 as they clinched the 2024 Supporters’ Shield, but they were beaten 2-1 by Atlanta in their best-of-three round one playoff tie.

They have now turned to former midfielder Mascherano, who played alongside Messi for eight years for Barcelona and over a decade with his national team.

“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,” Mascherano said after penning a contract to run through 2027.

“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.”

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 has spent the last three years in charge of Argentina’s Under-20 side, leading them to the quarter-finals of this year’s Olympic football tournament in Paris, only to lose to hosts and eventual silver medallists France.

Miami co-owner Jorge Mas revealed Messi had been consulted on Mascherano’s appointment, telling the club’s media channels: “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 his thoughts with me. 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 a roster with unlimited potential.”