Xavi, getting closer to Messi's team! Mascherano's departure sparked the “race” for Inter Miami's bench

Article by Cosmin Nistor – Published Saturday, April 18, 2026, 2:07 p.m. / Updated Saturday, April 18, 2026, 2:07 p.m.
Unexpected change at Inter Miami, the team where Lionel Messi plays. Just six months after a historic MLS triumph, coach Javier Mascherano has decided to leave the technical bench, citing personal reasons.
The decision took the football world by surprise, especially since Mascherano had managed to turn the team around in a difficult moment and lead it to an important domestic success.
Xavi, favorite to take over the technical bench
According to information appearing in the international press, the main favorite to take over the team is Xavi Hernandez.
The former FC Barcelona coach is seen as an ideal choice for the Florida project due to his attacking style of play based on possession and control. In addition, the excellent relationship with Lionel Messi could weigh decisively in making a decision.
Lionel Messi and Xavi, in 2012, in Barcelona // PHOTO Getty Images
Other variants taken into account
Other options are being taken into account until a permanent coach is appointed, Inter Miami management installing Guillermo Hoyos on an interim basis.
In parallel, officials are also looking at other big names in world football, such as Marcelo Gallardo, Thiago Motta and Lionel Scaloni.
However, in the case of Scaloni, a possible move could only take place after the 2026 World Cup, where he will lead Argentina's national team.
A project built around Messi
An interesting detail is that all the options analyzed by management are, in one way or another, related to Lionel Messi.
Whether it is former teammates, compatriots or coaches compatible with his style of play, the choice of the future technician seems to be closely related to the Argentine superstar.
Officials of the American club are looking for a quick solution to ensure the continuity of the project and to maintain the high level of performance.
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Xavi Hernandez coached Al-Sadd from 2019-2021 and FC Barcelona from November 2021 to June 2024. He previously played for the same two clubs, playing for FC Barcelona (1998-2015) and Al-Sadd (2015-2019).




