MIAMI (AP) — Javier Mascherano and Lionel Messi helped Inter Miami win the MLS Cup in December, adding to their long list of successes together.
Just four months later, Mascherano has left the club. The team announced his departure on Tuesday, despite a solid start to the season with three wins, one draw, and three losses, placing them third in the Eastern Conference. However, they have yet to win at their new stadium.
The club stated that Mascherano’s decision was personal, similar to his predecessor, Gerardo “Tata” Martino, who stepped down in November 2024. Mascherano and Messi were teammates with Barcelona and Argentina’s national team.
Replacing Mascherano is Guillermo Hoyos, an Argentine tied to Barcelona who played a role in discovering Messi at the club’s academy. Mascherano expressed gratitude to the club and its staff, highlighting the unforgettable moments they shared.
Mascherano’s entire coaching staff has also departed, but the reasons were not specified. He had a record of 27 wins, 9 draws, and 11 losses in 47 regular-season and playoff matches. Managing owner Jorge Mas praised Mascherano, calling him a key part of the club’s history and expressing gratitude for his contributions.
This move follows other recent changes at Inter Miami, including Jordi Alba’s unexpected retirement after last season. The team had hoped to win the CONCACAF Champions Cup but fell short in the round of 16 despite offseason preparations focused on that goal.
Mascherano expressed confidence in the club’s future and well wishes for its success. Hoyos, who has known Messi for over two decades, is now his coach. The team also announced that Alberto Marrero, their chief soccer officer, will take on additional duties as sporting director.