Javier Mascherano Speaks! Here's What He Had To Say
Plus: Luis Suárez signs an extension, Messi close to signing through to end of 2026?
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
It’s been quite a busy off-season for Inter Miami so far.
First, Tata Martino left the club due to personal issues in Argentina.
Second, Luis Suárez signed an extension with the team after bagging 20 goals in 2024. No-brainer.
Lastly, Gaston Edul reported that Lionel Messi could extend his Inter Miami contract to the end of 2026, which will see him step foot in the team’s new stadium, Miami Freedom Park.
The man to guide Miami during this new era will be a familiar face to the Barcelona boys, Javier Mascherano.
Speaking to the media today on a chilly South Florida afternoon, the ex-Barcelona defender touched on several topics, including roster building, his pre-existing relationship with the players, and more.
photo credit: Inter Miami CF
On…Joining Inter Miami:
“"This is a big challenge for me. I'm taking it at face value, to manage this club, with its great names and the young players."
Says he's capable of coaching the team.
On…Leading The Team:
"I have no doubt. In the end, the results [is ultimately what matters.] I have great hope and I feel capable of doing it well."
On…MLS:
"I knew of it [when I almost joined IMCF in 2020.] When [Messi joined,] (naturally) more eyeballs came. It's a league that's growing."
On…the Current Roster:
"We've analyzed the entire season. The regular season was extraordinary. The playoffs are the decisive moment. You can't just look at the last phase, but the whole picture - the team performed well throughout the year."
Says they're looking at the entire roster to see where they can improve. Have talked to the players and will hit the ground running in January.
On…the Club’s recruiting
"At the time of selecting players, we don't look at their passports, we look at what the club needs. It doesn't have to do with culture, or where they're from, it has to do with what the roster needs."
On…His Relationship with the Players:
"There's a time for friendship and there's a time for work, you separate them."
Says he has a close relationship with Farias, Redondo, Cremaschi, and Aviles as well due to his time as Argentina's U20 coach.
Owner Jorge Mas on…Roster Building:
“We will bring in players with the right characteristics to help our club achieve more in 2025."
Reiterates that the club will bring in new players, with the goal of competing well in every tournament.
Thoughts on the appointment? How do you think he’ll do?
Let’s discuss it in the comments.
I was skeptical about him but now he’s here I think we need to support him and see what happens. His relationship with the Barca boys probably will help and the fact that he’s more defensive minded, which we definitely need. Welcome Javier!