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Inter Miami CF named Javier Mascherano as their new head coach on Tuesday, replacing Gerardo “Tata” Martino.

Mascherano, 40, reunites with longtime Argentina and FC Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi and is under contract through the 2027 MLS season.

This is the first club coaching job for Mascherano, who has been coaching Argentina’s youth national teams since 2021. His squads reached the Round of 16 at the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and the quarterfinals of the 2024 Summer Games in Paris.

“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,” said Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas.

“Javier has amassed unmatched experience in his career, from playing on the world’s biggest stages, to coaching at the youth international level; he has the blend of skills and experience we were looking for. … We believe Javier is an important addition to our club as we continue on our quest to be among the world’s elite, setting a new standard for futbol in North America.”

Martino, who resigned last week due to personal reasons, guided Inter Miami to the 2024 Supporters’ Shield and the MLS single-season points record (74) before suffering an early playoff knockout by ninth-seeded Atlanta United.

In 2025, the Herons will compete in the 2025 Concacaf Champions Cup and 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.

“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, a center back and defensive midfielder, played with Messi at Barcelona from 2010-18. His pro career spanned 638 matches from 2003-20 and included 21 trophies, including UEFA Champions League titles in 2010-11 and 2014-15.

“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. We’re very excited to welcome him to lead our team,” said co-owner David Beckham.

Internationally, Mascherano claimed gold medals with Argentina at the 2004 and 2008 Summer Games and had a runner-up finish at the 2014 FIFA World Cup.

–Field Level Media