Javier Mascherano leaves Inter Miami in shock departure

Javier Mascherano leaves Inter Miami in shock departure

Javier Mascherano has left his role as head coach of Inter Miami, bringing an abrupt end to his tenure despite guiding the club to MLS Cup success last season.

The Major League Soccer side confirmed the Argentine’s departure on Tuesday, with the decision marking one of the most surprising managerial changes of the early 2026 campaign.

Mascherano, who was appointed in November 2024, had overseen a historic period for the club, leading them to their first MLS Cup title in his first full season in charge.

His tactical adjustments during that run drew praise, particularly his decision to reshape the attack around Lionel Messi, a long-time teammate from both club and international football.

That approach proved effective, with Inter Miami setting a new record for goals scored in a single MLS postseason as they powered their way to the title.

However, the momentum from that success has not carried into the current campaign.

Inter Miami have struggled for consistency in 2026, exiting the CONCACAF Champions Cup in the round of 16 and failing to establish a strong run of results in the league.

The team currently sits third in the Eastern Conference with a modest record and a narrow goal difference, falling short of expectations for a squad that underwent significant investment in the off-season.

The departures of experienced figures such as Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba were followed by notable additions, including forward German Berterame and goalkeeper Dayne St. Clair, as the club looked to build on its title-winning foundation.

Despite those reinforcements, performances have lacked the same cohesion and attacking fluency that defined their previous campaign.

Mascherano’s exit comes amid a broader trend of early managerial changes across MLS this season, highlighting the pressure on clubs to deliver immediate results.

Sources indicate that Guillermo Hoyos is set to take interim charge, having already overseen training sessions in the lead-up to the announcement.

The decision also brings an end to Mascherano’s close working relationship with Messi at club level, having previously shared a successful spell together at Barcelona and with the Argentina national team.

For Inter Miami, attention now turns to stabilising their season and maintaining their position in the playoff race following a period of inconsistency.

Mascherano departs having delivered the club’s greatest achievement to date, but with results this season falling below expectations, the hierarchy have opted for a change in direction.