Lionel Messi’s Coaching Journey with Javier Mascherano and Inter Miami
Lionel Messi’s recent trip to Super Bowl 59 in New Orleans was a family affair, accompanied by his former teammates Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets, Jordi Alba, and their children. However, one notable absence was Javier Mascherano, who had played alongside all four stars at Barcelona and the Argentine national team.
Mascherano’s Absence and Inter Miami Coaching Role
Mascherano’s absence from the Super Bowl gathering was attributed to his professional obligations as the first-year coach of Inter Miami. This appointment has garnered significant attention, given that Mascherano has no prior experience as a senior team coach, aside from his brief stint with Argentina’s youth national teams.
Dynamic Shift
Suarez expressed the novelty of having Mascherano as their coach, emphasizing the shift in their relationship dynamic. Inter Miami midfielder David Ruiz humorously commented on the potential challenges of having a former teammate as their superior.
Mascherano’s Challenges and Expectations
Mascherano faces a steep learning curve as he aims to guide Inter Miami to new heights. The club is set to participate in the FIFA Club World Cup this summer and will likely be contenders for the MLS title. Additionally, they must overcome the disappointment of their premature playoff exit last December, despite setting the best regular-season record in league history.
The pressure is intensified by the advanced age of Inter Miami’s star players. Messi, Busquets, Suarez, and Alba are all approaching the twilight of their careers, and anything short of lifting silverware will be considered a failure.
Messi’s Previous Success with a Former Teammate as Coach
Inter Miami can draw hope from the success that Messi enjoyed under the coaching of another former teammate, Lionel Scaloni. Scaloni led Argentina to FIFA World Cup and Copa America victories.
Inter Miami’s Preseason Performances
Mascherano’s tenure has started positively, with Inter Miami registering four victories and a draw in their preseason fixtures. They defeated Club America, Universitario, Club Olimpia Deportivo, and Sporting San Miguelito, while drawing against Orlando City.
Mascherano’s Approach
Mascherano has emphasized getting to know his players and implementing his preferred style of play during his early months on the job. Ruiz praised Mascherano’s passion and his efforts to connect with younger players.
Ambitions and Partnerships
Inter Miami will compete for multiple titles this season, including the MLS regular season and postseason, the Champions Cup, the Club World Cup, and the Leagues Cup tournament.
The club has also announced a three-year global partnership with UNICEF to support education programs for children in Argentina, El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, and Mexico.
