Lionel Messi has his new coach: Inter Miami officially appoints Javier Mascherano.
The former Barcelona and Argentina teammates have reunited, with Inter Miami announcing on Tuesday that Mascherano’s hiring as the club’s new head coach is finalized. The agreement was reached late last week, allowing Mascherano to step in for Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who departed for personal reasons.
Previously, Mascherano coached Argentina’s under-20 team and led the Olympic squad. He has signed a three-year contract and will officially assume his role once all necessary work documentation is processed.
“This position requires someone with the expertise to optimize our diverse array of talent—from our global icons to our promising homegrown athletes and young international talents,” stated Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas. “Javier brings unparalleled experience from competing on the world’s grandest stages to coaching at the youth international level.”
Mascherano’s return means more than just a reunion with Messi; during their time at Barcelona, he also played alongside current Inter Miami stars Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez, all of whom are anticipated to return for the 2025 season.
“I asked him what matters most, and how we can get the best from our roster and improve our game,” Mas shared last week. “Leo provided valuable insights. His familiarity with the other stars is a significant advantage. Naturally, I want Leo to feel at ease with the new coach.”
Mascherano takes charge of a team that achieved the best regular season record in Major League Soccer history this year. Inter Miami posted an impressive 22-4-8 record, setting new league benchmarks for points (74) and winning percentage (.765). However, the team faced disappointment in the playoffs, losing to Atlanta United in a first-round series.
Martino had already decided before the playoffs began that he would not return for the 2025 season. Like Mascherano, he shared a strong connection with Messi, having coached him both at Barcelona and the Argentine national team.
Mascherano was part of those teams under Martino’s guidance.
“Javier has consistently shown what makes him exceptional—unwavering determination, combined with the knowledge and instincts to succeed,” remarked Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham. “We are thrilled to have him lead our team.”
At 40, Mascherano also has a rich history in the Premier League, mainly with Liverpool, and he represented Argentina in four World Cups: 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018.
He faces a challenging first year, particularly as it may be Messi’s last with the club. The team hopes to have Messi play in 2026 when they transition to their new stadium near Miami International Airport, though there is currently no contract securing Messi for that season.
