Javier Mascherano has stunningly stepped down as Inter Miami’s manager, just months after leading the team to their first MLS title.
In the club’s announcement of the move, Mascherano said he was leaving for “personal reasons,” though later on the announcement specifies that his coaching staff will also depart the club.
Inter Miami said sporting director Guillermo Hoyos will take over as head coach on an interim basis.
“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,” Mascherano said in a statement. “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.”
Mascherano arrived at Inter Miami ahead of the 2025 season with plenty of question marks, having only coached at youth national team level with his native Argentina. Nonetheless, Mascherano and his former Barcelona teammate Lionel Messi led Miami to their first MLS title, defeating the Vancouver Whitecaps in last season’s final.
Inter Miami’s title defense has gotten off to a somewhat difficult start. Miami have drawn their first two matches at the club’s brand new Nu Stadium, though they have won three of their five league games this season. The biggest disappointment so far has come at continental level, with Inter Miami crashing out of the Concacaf Champions Cup to Nashville SC in the Round of 16 last month.
Mascherano had a great deal of roster turnover to deal with since last year’s title. Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba have retired, while Luís Suárez has been relegated to the bench after the big-money acquisition of Germán Berterame, who has gotten off to a slow start this season.
