Javier Mascherano Named Inter Miami Head Coach

Javier Mascherano, a former midfielder for Argentina, Liverpool, and Barcelona, has been named the new head coach for the Major League Soccer club Inter Miami. Mascherano recently guided Argentina to the quarter-finals at the Paris Olympics. The 40-year-old, whose playing career also included stints with River Plate and West Ham, has committed to a three-year deal, extending through the conclusion of the 2027 MLS season. He takes over from Gerardo Martino, who resigned from the position last week, citing “personal reasons.” This appointment reunites Mascherano with his former Argentina and Barcelona teammate, Lionel Messi, who became part of the Miami squad in July 2023. Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham commented, “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.” Mascherano stated, “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.” During his time as a club player, the Argentine secured 21 trophies, notably five La Liga titles and two Champions League victories with Barcelona. Mascherano represented Argentina in 147 matches, making him the nation’s second-most capped player, surpassed only by Messi. His international career included participation in four World Cups, reaching the final in 2014 where Argentina was defeated by Germany. Following his retirement from playing in 2020, Mascherano was named coach of the Argentina Under-20s team the subsequent year. He also managed his national team at the recent Olympic Games held in Paris this summer. In related news, Olof Mellberg, a former defender for Aston Villa, has been appointed as the head coach of St Louis City. The 47-year-old arrives from the Swedish club IF Brommapojkarna, where he guided them to a club-record 10th-place standing in the top division this year. Mellberg played in 260 matches for Villa from 2001 to 2008. His playing career also included spells with Juventus, Olympiakos, and Villarreal, and he earned 117 caps representing Sweden.