Who is Javier Mascherano (Inter Miami new Coach): Career, Relationship with Messi, and Net Worth
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| He has been hired as the Head Coach for Inter Miami on November 22, 2024, vacating the managerial seat with the young Argentinian team |
Javier Alejandro Mascherano was born on June 8, 1984, in San Lorenzo, Argentina. Growing up in a modest family, Mascherano demonstrated leadership and determination early, traits that shaped his illustrious career. His journey began in the youth ranks of River Plate, a renowned Argentine club known for producing top talents.
Playing Career
1. Early Club Success
Mascherano debuted professionally with River Plate in 2003, winning the Torneo Clausura in 2004. His performances caught the attention of Corinthians in Brazil, where he claimed the Brazilian Série A title in 2005.
2. European Rise
- West Ham United (2006-2007): His transfer to West Ham was brief but memorable, sharing the spotlight with fellow Argentine Carlos Tevez.
- Liverpool (2007-2010): Mascherano became a cornerstone of Liverpool's midfield, making 139 appearances and helping the team reach the 2007 UEFA Champions League final.
3. Peak at Barcelona (2010-2018)
Mascherano joined FC Barcelona for €24 million in 2010, transitioning from midfield to defense under Pep Guardiola. During his time, he:
- Made 350+ appearances.
- Won 19 major titles, including:
- 5 La Liga trophies
- 2 UEFA Champions League titles (2011, 2015)
- 2 FIFA Club World Cups
4. National Team Legacy
Mascherano represented Argentina 147 times, becoming the second-most capped player after Lionel Messi. He participated in:
- 4 FIFA World Cups (2006, 2010, 2014, 2018), finishing runner-up in 2014.
- 5 Copa América tournaments, finishing as a runner-up four times.
- 2 Olympic Games, winning gold medals in 2004 and 2008.
One of his defining moments came during the 2014 World Cup, where his last-ditch tackle against the Netherlands in the semifinals helped Argentina secure a place in the final.
| Regarding Mascherano's playing style, Jonathan Wilson noted in a 2013 article for The Guardian that the Argentine was an example of a type of holding midfielder that he dubbed a destroyer, who "clattered about making tackles and collecting bookings, his role almost entirely of regaining possession and distributing it simply." |
Coaching Career
From Player to Manager
Mascherano began his coaching journey in 2021, managing Argentina's U-20 national team. Under his leadership:
- Argentina competed in the 2023 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2024 Olympics.
- He developed young stars, including Federico Redondo and Facundo Farías.
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| Mascherano and Messi |
Inter Miami Appointment (2024)
In November 2024, Mascherano was appointed head coach of Inter Miami CF. Reuniting with Lionel Messi, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, he aims to bring his elite experience to the MLS.
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Relationship with Lionel Messi
Mascherano and Messi share a unique bond, forged during their time with Argentina and Barcelona.
- Together, they won the 2008 Olympic gold medal.
- At Barcelona, their partnership helped secure numerous trophies, including the 2011 and 2015 Champions Leagues.
Off the field, their friendship is marked by mutual respect. Mascherano’s appointment at Inter Miami reinforces their professional camaraderie.
| Mascherano made 147 appearances for the Argentina national team and is the second most capped player in the country's history (after Lionel Messi). |
Net Worth
As of 2024, Mascherano's net worth is estimated at $40 million, derived from his football career, endorsements, and coaching contracts.
In October 2015, Mascherano admitted two counts of fraud totalling just over €1.5 million having failed to declare €1.5 million in earnings in 2011 and 2012. In January 2016, he appeared in court in an attempt to avoid imprisonment for the offences, and was fined €800,000. He was sentenced to one year in prison for evasion of tax payments. The sentence was suspended and resulted in no jail time served, provided he does not offend again during the suspended sentence
FAQs
1. Did Mascherano win the FIFA World Cup?
No, but he was a runner-up in 2014 with Argentina.
2. How many trophies did Mascherano win with Barcelona?
He won 19 major titles, including 5 La Liga and 2 Champions League trophies.
3. What is his connection with Messi?
Mascherano and Messi have been teammates for Argentina and Barcelona. They share a close bond and now work together at Inter Miami.
4. What’s his coaching record?
Mascherano managed Argentina's U-20 team in several tournaments and is now head coach of Inter Miami.
5. How many caps does he have for Argentina?
Mascherano earned 147 caps, making him the second-most capped Argentine player.
