Javier Mascherano has quit as head coach of Inter Miami with immediate effect.
Mascherano has opted to walk away for personal reasons seven games into the new Major League Soccer season. He departs with the club third in the Eastern Conference.
Miami’s sporting director Guillermo Hoyos has been named interim boss.
Mascherano told the club’s official website: “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.
“I also want to thank the fans and La Familia, because none of this would have been possible without them.
“I will always carry with me the memory of our first star, and wherever I am, I will continue to wish the club all the best moving forward. I have no doubt that the club will continue to achieve success in the future.
“Sending you all a big hug, and thank you for everything.”
Messi’s mate walks away from Inter Miami
Mascherano was known to be one of Lionel Messi’s closest friends in football after their time together with the Argentina national team and Barcelona and it was no surprise when he was named Miami boss in November 2024.
In his only full season with the club, he led them to their first MLS Cup title with his side scoring a record 101 goals across regular- and post-season play. They reached the round of 16 at last summer’s Club World Cup before losing 4-0 to European champions Paris Saint-Germain.
Miami’s managing owner Jorge Mas said: “Javier will forever be part of this club’s history and will always hold a special place in the Inter Miami family. Not only for being a key part of unforgettable achievements, such as winning the MLS Cup and the team’s historic performance at the Club World Cup, but also for the example he set through his dedication and daily work leading the team.
“We respect his decision and are deeply grateful for everything he contributed, wishing him nothing but the very best in his professional and personal future.”
Hoyos’ first game in charge will be the weekend trip to the Colorado Rapids. Miami’s chief soccer officer Alberto Marrero assumes, as of today, the duties of sporting director.
