Javier Mascherano has officially been announced as Inter Miami’s new manager, with the Argentine coach succeeding Tata Martino.
Inter Miami fans were surprised to hear about the news of Martino’s departure following their early MLS play-off exit, with the Herons needing to move quick to replace the former MLS Cup winner ahead of January’s pre-season preparations.
However, Inter Miami have done just that with the appointment of Mascherano, who will take on his first club role having managed Argentina’s U-20s and U-23s for the past four years with mixed success.
And the Argentina coach has now shared his first message as Inter Miami’s new manager.
Mascherano excited to take on Inter Miami job
Speaking to Inter Miami’s official website, the former FC Barcelona defender shared how excited he is to take on the Herons job, with Mascherano calling the position ‘an honor’ to take on heading into 2025.
With David Beckham also eager to see Mascherano start his new role with Inter Miami, there is a lot of pressure already resting on the young coach’s shoulders with the new season a few months away from kicking off.
Yet Mascherano seems excited about what’s to come with his first club manager role, with the former Liverpool star saying: “To be able to lead a club like Inter Miami is an honor for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of.
“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.”
Mascherano knows he has to deliver in his first year in MLS
Shaka Hislop has already highlighted the problems Mascherano could face at Inter Miami with the 40-year-old coach taking on his first club role in one of the hardest leagues in soccer in MLS.
Yet Mascherano will be aware of the pressure he’s already facing heading into the 2025 season, where Inter Miami fans and pundits will be expecting the Argentine manager to deliver with the squad he has.
Indeed, Inter Miami have the quality to go all the way in MLS Cup and the CONCACAF Champions Cup next year, and Mascherano will need to show the world what his qualities are as a coach if he’s to succeed.