Javier Mascherano of Inter Miami is poised to address the doubts surrounding his managerial capabilities as he steps into the role with limited experience. Speaking to reporters on Tuesday, he expressed his enthusiasm about reuniting with former Barcelona and Argentina teammate Lionel Messi at the MLS club.
In a recent statement, team owner Jorge Mas appeared to validate the theories circulating among fans, revealing that Lionel Messi played a role in hiring Javier Mascherano. This revelation comes after the two athletes shared significant time on the pitch for their club and national team.
At 40 years old, Mascherano, who transitioned to coaching Argentina’s youth teams following his retirement four years ago, has yet to manage a club. Nevertheless, he expressed strong confidence in his ability to succeed despite his limited coaching experience.
“Individuals around the globe will hold differing opinions, and that perspective is certainly valid,” he told reporters on Tuesday through an interpreter.
There is a strong belief in my ability to succeed. I am completely confident.
In a swift move, Miami appointed Mascherano as head coach just days after Gerardo “Tata” Martino resigned. This change comes from the top-seeded team’s unexpected first-round exit in the MLS Cup playoffs, where they were defeated by ninth-seeded Atlanta United last month.
Mascherano, a two-time Champions League winner and holder of five La Liga titles, five Spanish Cups, and two Club World Cups with Barcelona, acknowledged his lack of experience in the North American top-flight league. However, he emphasized that the accurate measure of his capabilities would be reflected in the team’s performance on the pitch.
“I have been a coach for three years and have trained the youth groups for Argentina. There is always pressure, even though they are young,” he stated.
“I have accumulated 20 years of experience in my career, reflecting on everything I have encountered,” stated the former defensive midfielder, who has also played for Liverpool, River Plate, and Corinthians.
Mascherano is set to take the helm, overseeing his former Barcelona colleagues Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, alongside Lionel Messi.
The team enters the new year under increased scrutiny following FIFA’s contentious decision to grant them a spot in the Club World Cup, a move linked to their triumph in the “Supporters’ Shield” for securing the top position in the MLS standings during the regular season.
“We will clearly face formidable and historically significant teams.” “This type of competition also provides an opportunity for growth,” stated Mascherano.
The United States is set to host the expanded Club World Cup from June 15 to July 13 next year.
