Official: Mascherano resigns as head coach of Inter Miami; sporting director Oyos will temporarily take over.

Inter Miami announced on Tuesday that 41-year-old Javier Mascherano has resigned as head coach for "personal reasons."

Mascherano played alongside Lionel Messi for many years at Barcelona during his playing career, winning two Champions League titles, two Club World Cup titles, five La Liga titles, two UEFA Super Cup titles, five Copa del Rey titles, and three Spanish Super Cup titles with the team. He also played alongside Messi for a long time in the national team, representing the country in four World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018) and four Copa Americas (2007, 2011, 2015, 2016).

In November 2024, Mascherano succeeded Gerardo Martino as head coach of Inter Miami. To date, he has accumulated a record of 38 wins, 15 draws, and 14 losses, and led the team to their first MLS Cup title last December.

In a statement, Mascherano clearly stated: "For personal reasons, I have decided to end my coaching career at Inter Miami CF."

"I want to thank the club for their trust in me, thank every staff member who worked hard for the team, but most of all, I want to thank the players who allowed us to experience countless unforgettable moments."

"I also want to thank the fans. Without them, none of this would have been possible."

“I will always remember the first championship we won together. Wherever I am, I will continue to wish the club all the best for the future. I firmly believe that Inter Miami will achieve even greater glory.”

Jorge Mas, one of the club's owners, said: "Javier will always be a part of the club's history and will always hold a special place in the Inter Miami family. He not only led the team to many unforgettable achievements—such as winning the MLS Cup and his historic performance in the Club World Cup—but his dedication to his work also set an example for the team. We respect his decision and are deeply grateful for everything he has done. We sincerely wish him all the best in his future career and personal life."

As for Mascherano's successor, Inter Miami has already made arrangements. They have decided that sporting director Guillermo Oyos will temporarily take over as manager until further notice.

The 62-year-old Oyos, from Argentina, was Messi's mentor during his time at Barcelona B. He was invited to become the director of youth training at Internacional Miami in 2023 and was promoted to sporting director last January.

Image source: Internet