Did Messi Influence Inter Miami’s Decision to Sign Mascherano?

After Tata Martino’s departure from Inter Miami, speculation about the club’s next head coach quickly centered on two names connected to Lionel Messi: Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano, both former teammates of the Argentine star.

According to The Athletic, it was widely assumed that Miami would seek someone who would please Messi, with the legend undoubtedly having a say in the selection. Days after Martino’s exit, Mascherano was appointed.

If there were any doubts about Messi’s influence, club owner Jorge Mas dispelled them during a press conference addressing Martino’s departure.

“I had a specific conversation with him… I asked Leo for his input, and he provided it. That was Leo’s involvement, which, honestly, happens all the time,” said Mas.

He added that he regularly consults senior players in the locker room for their insights on improving the organization. While rare in global football, players influencing managerial appointments is not unprecedented. Messi himself has faced similar claims, notably during his time at Barcelona.

When Martino was appointed Barca coach in 2013, speculation arose about Messi’s role in the decision. Martino himself commented at the time:

“I’m not sure of the specifics, but I have no doubt that Jorge [Messi’s father] and Lionel had some influence. They were likely consulted, leading to this outcome.”

Messi and Barcelona’s then-sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta denied any involvement. In Miami, however, Jorge Mas chose not to dismiss the notion of Messi’s influence.

Far from surprising, Messi’s influence on such decisions should be seen as a natural extension of his stature. While football often adheres to the idea that no player is bigger than the team, exceptions are made for players of Messi’s caliber.

Messi is more than just a player for Miami. As part of his transfer to Major League Soccer, he secured an ownership stake in the organization, which could take effect after his playing days. His global brand has elevated Inter Miami’s profile and commercial value to unprecedented levels.

Ignoring Messi’s influence would overlook the realities of his impact.

While rare, Messi isn’t the only star to shape managerial decisions. In 2022, ESPN reported that Kylian Mbappé influenced Paris Saint-Germain’s decision to part ways with sporting director Leonardo as part of his contract renewal.