'Happens all the time' - Lionel Messi had 'input' on Inter Miami's decision to hire Javier Mascherano as new head coach, confirms MLS club's co-owner Jorge Mas

The Herons chose to shake up their backroom staff after their unexpected early exit from the MLS playoffs, which led Tata Martino to resign. Another Argentine, Mascherano, who shares a close bond with Messi,replaced him in the hot seat. The duo played together for years at both FC Barcelona and the Argentine national team, building a strong camaraderie and understanding. During their eight years in Spain, they won two Champions League titles and four La Liga crowns together among a host of other trophies.

According to The Atheltic, two notable names quickly emerged as frontrunners to replace Martino: Xavi Hernandez and Mascherano, both former teammates of Messi. Mascherano ultimately secured the role, with Miami co-owner Mas consulting Messi before making a final decision.

“I had a specific conversation with him. Leo gave me what I asked him, which was input,” Mas told reporters during a press conference. “That was Leo’s involvement and engagement with me, which (happens) frankly all the time.”

Messi’s influence on Inter Miami’s decisions mirrors the power wielded by other global football stars. For example, Kylian Mbappé’s input was a key factor in the departure of PSG’s sporting director Leonardo Araújo. Similarly, Cristiano Ronaldo’s influence at Al-Nassr saw the Saudi club replace manager Luis Castro with Stefano Pioli, as confirmed by CEO Guido Fienga.

Mascherano now faces the task of steering Inter Miami to greater success. His immediate focus will be on developing a tactical plan for the 2025 MLS season, which begins in mid-February. Working with a roster that includes veterans like Luis Suarez, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba, alongside Messi, the new coach has an opportunity to utilize his players’ vast experience to propel the team to their first-ever MLS Cup.