Mascherano reunites with Messi, other ex-Barca stars as Inter Miami boss

Inter Miami announced Javier Mascherano as the club's new head coach Tuesday, reuniting the Argentine with former Barcelona teammates and current Major League Soccer stars Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets, and Luis Suarez.

The retired midfielder takes the helm after spells in charge of Argentina's Under-20 and Olympic national teams. His contract in Miami runs through the 2027 MLS season.

In addition to Mascherano's familiarity with Miami's ex-Barca contingent, he selected Tomas Aviles, Benjamin Cremaschi, Facundo Farias, and Federico Redondo for non-senior squads during his time in Argentina's coaching setup.

"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," Mascherano said. "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's 2024 Olympic squad boasted four players with caps for Argentina's men's team - Thiago Almada, Julian Alvarez, Nicolas Otamendi, and Geronimo Rulli - but was eliminated by France in the quarterfinal stage. His team at the 2023 Under-20 World Cup fell to Nigeria in the round of 16, and he oversaw the squad's group-stage exits at the 2022 South American Games and the 2023 South American Under-20 Championship.

Mascherano represented numerous clubs, including Liverpool and Barcelona, in a glittering playing career. His time with Barcelona was most fruitful as he amassed two Champions League crowns, five La Liga titles, and many other major trophies. He won two Olympic gold medals with Argentina.