Inter Miami made it quite clear why they see Javier Mascherano as the perfect candidate to get a tune out of Lionel Messi, Luis Suarez and the team's young stars in the 2025 MLS season.
The former Liverpool, Barcelona and Argentina player was officially appointed by the Florida franchise on November 26. The ex-defender has agreed a deal that will see him take charge for the next three MLS campaigns.
Mascherano's arrival comes after Tata Martino's surprising departure as head coach following Inter Miami's shock MLS Cup playoffs exit at the hands of Atlanta United.
2️⃣0️⃣2️⃣4️⃣ Season ✅
— Inter Miami CF (@InterMiamiCF) November 25, 2024
✍️ Set record for most points in MLS Regular Season
💫 Academy players shining on first team
👏 Diego Gomez named best MLS player under 22
✅ International Club Competitions
🏆 Supporters’ Shield Champs
💗🖤 #LaFamilia with the support all season
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The Herons were Supporters' Shield winners in 2024 and considered heavy favourites for MLS Cup glory, particularly given the performances of Messi and Suarez throughout the year, yet they were undone in a best-of-three series that highlighted some of the team's vulnerabilities.
Now, however, the club hopes to have the right man in charge to strike a balance between allowing the experienced stellar names to flourish while also developing the younger talent at his disposal.
MORE: All the latest soccer action | Lionel Messi news
Why Javier Mascherano is seen as perfect Inter Miami coach
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas said: "This job requires somebody with the experience to be able to maximize our unique collection of talent — from our global superstars, to our burgeoning homegrown players, to our young international prospects, and everything in between.
"Javier has amassed unmatched experience in his career, from playing on the world's biggest stages, to coaching at the youth international level; he has the blend of skills and experience we were looking for, and even has had direct coaching experience with Tomas Aviles, Facundo Farias, Federico Redondo, and Benjamin Cremaschi.
"We believe Javier is an important addition to our club as we continue on our quest to be among the world's elite, setting a new standard for fútbol in North America."
Co-owner David Beckham said Mascherano's impressive playing career is another important factor behind him being the right man to bring in.
"Throughout his career as one of the world's best players and as an experienced coach, Javier has always demonstrated what makes him great — relentless determination with the knowledge, instincts and understanding to back it up. We're very excited to welcome him to lead our team," he said.
Mascherano himself described his appointment "as an honor for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of".
He added: "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."
