Inter Miami coach Javier Mascherano resigns for "personal reasons" four months after leading team to MLS Cup title

Javier Mascherano is out as Inter Miami's coach, a stunning move that comes only four months after leading Lionel Messi's club to the MLS Cup title.

Mascherano, a former teammate of Messi at Barcelona and with Argentina's national team before reuniting with him as coach, is leaving for personal reasons, the team said.

"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 remarks released by the team.

Mascherano is not the only one leaving. The coaching staff he brought with him in January 2025 is also resigning with him. 

The move comes not even two weeks after Inter Miami opened its new stadium near Miami International Airport. The club has tied both of its first two matches in the new facility.

Managing Owner Jorge Mas issued a statement on the decision.

"Javier will forever be part of this Club's history and will always hold a special place in the Inter Miami CF family," Mas said in part. "We respect his decision and are deeply grateful for everything he contributed, wishing him nothing but the very best in his professional and personal future."

Taking over as interim manager is Guillermo Hoyos. Hoyos, who comes down from the front office as sporting director, will assume the role of first team head coach.