Javier Mascherano, the former Barcelona and Argentina star, has taken on a new challenge as the head coach of Inter Miami. In an exclusive interview with GOAL, Mascherano revealed that coaching his old friends from Barcelona, including Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba, has been a unique experience. He emphasized that the understanding between them is the key to their success.
Mascherano, who joined Inter Miami in December 2024, has been working hard to build a strong team and create a winning culture. His relationship with his former teammates has played a crucial role in this process1. “It’s not just my relationship with Leo, I have three other players on the team I’ve played with a lot,” Mascherano said. “I have a really close bond with them, and I won’t deny that.”
The understanding and camaraderie between Mascherano and his old friends have been evident on the training ground. Mascherano, known for his disciplined and hardworking approach during his playing days, has brought the same mentality to his coaching. “We have a great understanding, and that helps us communicate better on the field,” he explained. “It’s important to have that trust and respect, especially when you’ve played together for so many years.”
Mascherano’s coaching journey began with Argentina’s U-20 national team before he took on the role at Inter Miami. His experience as a player, combined with his passion for the game, has made him a natural fit for the coaching role1. “Experience in football doesn’t always mean much,” Mascherano said during his presentation. “Even though I’ve been coaching for 3 years, my 20 years of playing and everything I’ve lived through back that up.”
The bond between Mascherano and his former teammates has been a source of motivation for the team. “It’s a joy as I haven’t seen them for a long time,” Mascherano said. Many of them marked the end of an era at Barcelona when I was with them, so it is a joy to spend time with people you love and who I have experienced such important things with in my sporting career.
Mascherano’s approach to coaching has been well-received by his players. He’s a great coach, and he knows how to get the best out of us,” said Messi, who has been impressed with Mascherano’s leadership1. “His experience and understanding of the game are invaluable, and it’s great to have him as our coach.”
The understanding between Mascherano and his players has also been evident in their performances on the field. Inter Miami’s recent victory over Club America in the Club World Cup showcased the team’s cohesion and Mascherano’s ability to bring out the best in his players. “We’ve had some great moments together, and I’m excited to see what we can achieve in the future,” Mascherano said.
Mascherano’s journey from player to coach has been a remarkable one. His success as a player, including two Champions League titles and five league titles with Barcelona, has laid the foundation for his coaching career1. “It’s a new challenge, but I’m ready for it,” Mascherano said. “I want to help this team achieve great things, and I believe we can do it together.”
As Inter Miami continues its journey under Mascherano’s leadership, the understanding and camaraderie between the coach and his players will be crucial to their success. Mascherano’s ability to connect with his old friends and create a positive environment has already made a significant impact on the team. It’s a joy to work with these players, and I’m grateful for the opportunity,” Mascherano said. “We have a great understanding, and that’s the key to our success.”
In conclusion, Javier Mascherano’s transition from player to coach has been a successful one, thanks to his understanding and camaraderie with his former teammates. His leadership and experience have made a significant impact on Inter Miami, and the team is poised for success under his guidance. As they continue their journey, the bond between Mascherano and his players will be crucial to their achievements on the field
