Seven Potential Replacements for Javier Mascherano at Inter Miami—Ranked

Inter Miami has a key decision to make after Mascherano's departure, with Lionel Messi's future in the balance.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 12:54am

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A cubist, geometric painting depicting the dynamic action of a soccer match, with players and the ball fragmented into overlapping planes of vibrant colors, capturing the intensity and complexity of the game.The next manager of Inter Miami will face the challenge of guiding the club and Lionel Messi through a critical period, with the team's future success and the Argentine legend's legacy hanging in the balance.Today in Miami

Inter Miami manager Javier Mascherano has parted ways with the club due to 'personal reasons' after a slow start to the 2026 MLS season. With the team's 2025 MLS Cup title to defend, the Herons must now find a replacement who can get the best out of Lionel Messi in the Argentine legend's final years. This article ranks seven potential candidates, from interim boss Guillermo Hoyos to the dream scenario of Pep Guardiola reuniting with Messi in MLS.

Why it matters

The next manager of Inter Miami will be tasked with leading the club through a critical period, as they look to build on their 2025 MLS Cup triumph and maximize the final years of Lionel Messi's illustrious career. The decision will have major implications not just for the team's on-field success, but also for Messi's legacy and the continued growth of MLS as a whole.

The details

After Mascherano's departure, Inter Miami's sporting director Guillermo Hoyos has taken over on an interim basis. However, the club is expected to conduct a thorough search for a permanent replacement, with a range of experienced managers being considered. The article evaluates seven potential candidates, including Hoyos, Matías Almeyda, Marcelo Gallardo, Wilfried Nancy, Xavi, Lionel Scaloni, and the dream scenario of Pep Guardiola. Each manager is assessed based on their track record, connection to Messi, and fit for the unique challenges of leading Inter Miami.

  • Javier Mascherano parted ways with Inter Miami in April 2026 due to 'personal reasons'.
  • Guillermo Hoyos has taken over as interim manager.

The players

Javier Mascherano

Former Inter Miami manager who led the team to the 2025 MLS Cup title before departing in 2026.

Guillermo Hoyos

Inter Miami's sporting director who has taken over as interim manager following Mascherano's departure.

Lionel Messi

Legendary Argentine footballer who joined Inter Miami in 2023 and is nearing the end of his illustrious career.

Tata Martino

Former Inter Miami manager who won the 2024 Supporters' Shield before departing the club in late 2024.

Matías Almeyda

Argentine manager with experience in MLS and Liga MX who could be a candidate for the Inter Miami job.

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What they’re saying

“He was my footballing dad. He's helped me a lot since I came to Barça. He was always with me, showing me things and bringing me to where I am today ... I'm grateful that he is my footballing godfather.”

— Lionel Messi

What’s next

Inter Miami's ownership group will conduct a thorough search for a permanent replacement, with the decision potentially having major implications for Lionel Messi's final years in the sport.

The takeaway

The next manager of Inter Miami will face immense pressure to continue the team's success and get the best out of Lionel Messi as he nears the end of his legendary career. The decision will be crucial not just for the club's on-field performance, but also for Messi's legacy and the continued growth of MLS as a whole.