Inter Miami Coach Javier Mascherano Steps Down After MLS Cup Win

Longtime Messi teammate cites 'personal reasons' for departure after historic season

Apr. 14, 2026 at 11:36pm

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting a fragmented soccer celebration, with sharp planes of pink, black, and white colors representing the official colors of Inter Miami CF.Mascherano's resignation leaves Inter Miami searching for a new leader to guide the club's continued success.Today in Miami

Inter Miami head coach Javier Mascherano has announced his resignation, stepping down from his post after leading the club to its first-ever MLS Cup title in 2025. Mascherano, a former teammate of Lionel Messi at Barcelona and with the Argentine national team, cited 'personal reasons' for his departure early in the 2026 MLS season.

Why it matters

Mascherano's resignation is a surprise move, as he had overseen one of the most successful stretches in Inter Miami's short history, including a record-setting 101 goals scored across the regular season and playoffs. His departure leaves the club searching for a new head coach as they look to build on their recent championship success.

The details

Mascherano was hired by Inter Miami in November 2024 and led the club to a 27-9-11 record across 47 matches. In 2025, he guided the team to its first MLS Cup title and Eastern Conference championship, with Inter Miami becoming the first MLS side to reach the knockout rounds of the FIFA Club World Cup. The team also advanced to its second Leagues Cup final in three appearances under Mascherano's leadership.

  • Mascherano was hired as Inter Miami head coach in November 2024.
  • In the 2025 season, Mascherano led Inter Miami to its first MLS Cup title.
  • Mascherano announced his resignation early in the 2026 MLS season, with Inter Miami holding a 3-1-3 record.

The players

Javier Mascherano

A former Argentine professional footballer who played as a defensive midfielder or central defender, and is the former head coach of Inter Miami CF.

Lionel Messi

An Argentine professional footballer who plays as a forward for Inter Miami CF and is considered one of the greatest players of all time.

Guillermo Hoyos

The interim manager of Inter Miami CF following Mascherano's resignation.

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What they’re saying

“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.”

— Javier Mascherano, Former Inter Miami Head Coach

What’s next

Inter Miami has begun an extensive search for their next permanent head coach following Mascherano's resignation.

The takeaway

Mascherano's departure is a significant loss for Inter Miami, as he had overseen the club's most successful period to date, including their first-ever MLS Cup title. The team will now look to find a new leader who can build on that momentum and continue the club's upward trajectory.