Leo Messi already has a new coach for Inter Miami. Xavi Hernández's name had been mentioned a lot before, but finally the chosen one is another former FC Barcelona player. Specifically, we are talking about Javier Mascherano, current Argentina U-20 coach, who will leave his job to head to the United States.
It's been announced by journalist César Luis Montes and confirmed by Madrid-Barcelona: Javier Mascherano will become the new coach of Inter Miami. This will be his first team as a solo coach, having previously been only around the orbit of AFA. The intention is for him to lead the renewed project after the departure of Gerardo Martino.
In the coming days, Mascherano is expected to sign a long-term contract with Inter Miami, with the intention of becoming the new team boss. In addition to his friend Leo Messi, he'll once again coincide with other former Barcelona players such as Busquets, Jordi Alba and Luis Suárez.
Javier Mascherano: First Experience as a Club Coach
He began his first experience as a coach with the Argentinian national team and will now make the jump to a club. Specifically, Inter Miami, where the objective is none other than to win all possible trophies. The opinion of Leo Messi, who's always seen great potential in him as a coach, has been key in the decision.
Mascherano is starting this new phase with great enthusiasm. A few months ago, he received a call from Laporta to take charge of Barcelona Atlètic. However he turned it down because he had the Olympic Games ahead of him. Everything has changed now: He is free from competitions and it's the ideal time to go to Miami.
Javier Mascherano Stays on Inter Miami Bench: Farewell to Xavi
In recent days, rumors linking Xavi Hernández to Inter Miami have gained momentum. The American club was looking for a new coach following the resignation of Gerardo Martino and it seemed that the name of Catalonian Xavi was at the top. However, Sport prevented any kind of speculation by putting an end to this possibility.
This possibility was never on the table for one clear reason: the strained relationship with some of his former teammates at the Catalonian team.
While he's always had a good relationship with Sergio Busquets, his relationship with Jordi Alba worsened when he became the new FC Barcelona coach. On the other hand, with Messi and Luis Suárez he has cooled down over time. The context was not considered favorable and it was decided not to hire him.
Javier Mascherano's case is completely different: He will be very well received at Inter Miami.