Lionel Messi is on the verge of collaborating with his former Argentine teammate Javier Mascherano at Inter Miami, as Mascherano is poised to take on the role of manager. A source familiar with the discussions shared this information under the condition of anonymity, indicating that Mascherano has likely accepted the position formerly held by Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who stepped down for personal reasons. Earlier this week, reports from Argentina highlighted Mascherano as a strong frontrunner for the Inter Miami coaching position.
Inter Miami co-owner Jorge Mas revealed that the team had identified three potential candidates for the job and made a decision on a replacement on Wednesday. However, he refrained from confirming whether Mascherano has officially been appointed or if he is the final choice. Mas commented on the situation, noting, “We are very near the end of the process,” and assured fans that an announcement regarding the new coach will occur within the next few days.
During their time together, Messi and Mascherano were key players for both the Argentine national team and Barcelona, where Mascherano interacted with current Miami stars like Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez. Mascherano previously held the record for the most international appearances for Argentina, a milestone that has since been surpassed by Messi. Mas mentioned discussions with Messi regarding the coaching search but did not specify if Messi had a direct role in recruiting Mascherano, who is currently managing Argentina’s Under-20 national team.
“This is an extremely attractive position for a coach,” Mas stated, expressing enthusiasm about the opportunity. Martino led Inter Miami to stellar achievements, including the best regular season record in Major League Soccer history, before resigning. He was brought on board in July 2023, shortly before Messi made his debut for the club, and cited personal reasons for his departure.
Under Martino’s leadership, Inter Miami secured the 2023 Leagues Cup and MLS Supporters Shield but was eliminated in the first round of the MLS Cup playoffs. As the team gears up for critical preparations ahead of the 2025 season, which kicks off with training camp in January, the search for a new coach remains a priority.
Previously, Martino had significant connections with Messi, having coached him at both Barcelona and the Argentine national team before taking the Miami job. He announced his decision not to return for the upcoming season shortly before the playoffs commenced. Martino reflected on his experience, stating, “Needless to say, we’ve enjoyed it a lot and I’m grateful for the opportunity, on behalf of my entire coaching staff, to have been able to work at this club,” during his farewell press conference. His coaching tenure recorded an impressive 26 wins, 9 losses, and 12 draws in regular-season matches.
Mascherano, 40, brings a wealth of experience to the role, having spent five seasons in the Premier League, primarily with Liverpool, and representing Argentina in four World Cups across 2006, 2010, 2014, and 2018.