Lionel Messi’s Inter Miami stunned as manager Javier Mascherano announces shock exit | OneFootball

Javier Mascherano has unexpectedly stepped down as head coach of Inter Miami, a mere four months after guiding Lionel Messi’s team to MLS Cup glory.

The team confirmed that Mascherano, who previously played alongside Messi at Barcelona and for the Argentine national team before their reunion in Miami, is departing due to personal reasons.

In a statement released by the club, Mascherano expressed his gratitude: "I would like to thank the club for the trust they placed in me, every employee who is part of the organization for the collective effort, but especially the players, who made it possible for us to experience unforgettable moments."

This surprising announcement comes less than two weeks after Inter Miami opened its new stadium near Miami International Airport.

The club has drawn both of its initial two fixtures played at the new venue.

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Messi's Inter Miami won the MLS cup with Mascherano in charge in December (Getty)

Mascherano took charge of 67 Inter Miami matches in total after joining the club at the start of 2025.

He won 38 games, as well as coaching his team to 15 draws and 14 losses.

Inter Miami are now looking for a new head coach after a mixed start to the 2026 season.

They have collected 12 points from their opening seven matches to sit third in the Eastern Conference table, but they have been held to three draws already this season.

The team’s star player, Messi, has been in sparkling form, though, scoring six goals in eight matches across all competitions.

The 38-year-old is still yet to confirm whether he will play in this summer’s World Cup that is due to be hosted by the US, Mexico and Canada.

Argentina are the defending champions after winning a thrilling final in Qatar four years ago when they beat France in a penalty shootout.

The match had finished 3-3 after extra time, with Messi scoring twice for Argentina and Kylian Mbappe netting a hat-trick for France.