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Mascherano, who recently served as the head coach of the Argentine U-20 squad and the Olympics team, will reunite with compatriot Lionel Messi and other former Barcelona players Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez.
Javier Mascherano. (X)
Major League Soccer side Inter Miami FC appointed former Argentina international Javier Mascherano as the new head coach of the side following the departure of former coach Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino.
Mascherano, who recently served as the head coach of the Argentine U-20 squad and the Olympics team, reunited with compatriot Lionel Messi and other former Barcelona players Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Luis Suarez.
Mascherano expressed his delight in being named as the man to lead the Inter Miami project and enumerated the reasons that made the job desireable to him.
“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,” Mascherano said.
“I was drawn to the organization’s undeniable ambition, and the infrastructure it has to support it,” the 40-year-old continued.
“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,” he added.
Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham elucidated the characteristics of the former Argentine defender that made him a good option to manage the American side.
“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,” Beckham said.
“We’re very excited to welcome him to lead our team,” he added.
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas added that Mascherano was brought in to capitalise on the various resources available at the club including international superstars and homegrown prospects.
“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,” Mas said.
“Javier has amassed unmatched experience in his career, from playing on the world’s biggest stages, to coaching at the youth international level,” he continued.
Mas also revealed that starman Messi was consulted on the decision to hire Mascherano after Martino stepped down.
“I asked him, ’What is important to you? And what do you think is important to get the best out of our roster and out of our 11 and how do we improve?” Mas opened up.
“And Leo shared with me his thoughts. … Without a doubt, a familiarity with Leo and the other stars is an advantage in every aspect. Obviously, I want Leo to feel comfortable with the new trainer, with the new coach coming in,” he added.