Javier Mascherano, former Argentine international and first-year Inter Miami coach, has made decisive moves to guide the team to the MLS Eastern Conference Final.
The 41-year-old was faced with a tough decision last weekend: benching club legend Luis Suarez, a former Barcelona teammate and close friend of Lionel Messi.
Mascherano opted to start 19-year-old Mateo Silvetti in Suarez’s place against FC Cincinnati, prioritizing speed and vertical attacking options.
The move paid off, as Inter Miami won 4-0 on the road, advancing to face New York City FC at Chase Stadium in Fort Lauderdale.
Tactical Adjustments
Mascherano and his staff concluded that the team needed to exploit space and play behind Cincinnati’s defense.
With Silvetti and Tadeo Allende flanking Messi, Inter Miami maximized attacking opportunities.
Suarez, despite being benched, handled the situation professionally, training hard and supporting his teammates.
Mascherano stressed the importance of player leadership in maintaining a united locker room.
Praise for Coaching Approach
Apple TV analyst Taylor Twellman noted that Mascherano’s boldness as a coach reflects his playing career.
“It’s very difficult for people to disassociate Javier Mascherano as a player to then, all of a sudden, Javier Mascherano as a manager because we don’t have a ton of proof to go off, but you don’t lose who you are,” Twellman said.
Mascherano also benched veteran goalkeeper Oscar Ustari after a 5-3 loss to Chicago Fire, giving 23-year-old Rocco Rios Novo a chance to step up.
Impact and Leadership
Inter Miami managing owner Jorge Mas praised Mascherano’s first year as a coach.
“This is not an easy club to manage, first because of the expectations placed on him and the players from us, the owners,” Mas said.
Mascherano’s leadership has been recognized for fostering development among younger players while ensuring team cohesion.
Analysts, including Alexi Lalas, highlighted Mascherano’s ability to manage high-profile talent, calling his performance commendable in MLS.
Mascherano’s guidance has positioned Inter Miami as a competitive and dynamic team capable of making a deep playoff run.
