Javier Mascherano announces shocking Inter Miami departure after winning MLS Cup with Lionel Messi

Inter Miami head coach and former Liverpool and Barcelona midfielder Javier Mascherano has stepped down from his post, citing ‘personal reasons.’ The 41-year-old was hired by Miami back in November 2024 and his tenure coincided with one of the most successful stretches in club history.

Mascherano released a public statement thanking the club, fans and every employee.

“I want to let everyone know that, for personal reasons, I have decided to end my tenure as head coach of Inter Miami CF. First and foremost, 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,” the statement read.

The decision comes early into the 2026 MLS season with Inter Miami holding a 3-1-3 record and sitting third in the Eastern Conference. Mascherano departs with a record of 27 wins, nine losses, and 11 draws across 47 matches.

His exit came after a historic 2025 campaign that saw Inter Miami secure its first-ever MLS Cup title and Eastern Conference championship. Under his leadership, the team scored 101 total goals across the regular season and playoffs, the highest single-season tally in MLS history.

Internationally, Inter Miami became the first MLS side to reach the knockout rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup, becoming the first CONCACAF team to defeat European opposition in an official competition and the first U.S.-based team to win a match in the tournament. The team reached the semifinals of the Concacaf Champions Cup and advanced to its second Leagues Cup final in three appearances.

As a player, Mascherano played alongside Lionel Messi both at Barcelona and Argentina, and managed a core of former Barcelona stars including Jordi Alba, Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. The resignation has resulted in Guillermo Hoyos taking over first-team duties as the interim manager.

Miami are understood to have begun an extensive search for their next head coach.

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