Javier Mascherano has resigned as head coach of Inter Miami for personal reasons, seven games into the Major League Soccer season. The club, currently third in the Eastern Conference, named sporting director Guillermo Hoyos as interim boss. Mascherano's departure leaves Lionel Messi without a close ally at the club.
Javier Mascherano announced his immediate departure from Inter Miami on Monday, citing personal reasons. The move comes after just seven matches in the new MLS season, with the team holding third place in the Eastern Conference standings. Mascherano expressed gratitude in a statement on the club's website, thanking players, staff, fans, and La Familia for their support during his tenure. He highlighted the memories of their first MLS Cup win and wished the club continued success. Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas praised Mascherano's contributions, including leading the team to its first MLS Cup title in his full season, where they scored a record 101 goals across regular and postseason play. The side also advanced to the round of 16 in last summer's Club World Cup, falling 4-0 to Paris Saint-Germain. Mas called Mascherano a permanent part of the club's history for his achievements and dedication. Mascherano, a longtime friend of Lionel Messi from their days with Argentina and Barcelona, took over as coach in November 2024. Guillermo Hoyos will manage his first game in charge during the upcoming weekend trip to face the Colorado Rapids. Meanwhile, chief soccer officer Alberto Marrero has stepped into the sporting director role.
