Javier Mascherano is focused solely on the current season with Inter Miami as he leads them to fifth place in the Eastern Conference. Despite early struggles, Mascherano’s tactical changes have sparked a resurgence, with Messi scoring consecutive braces. Miami eyes a strong finish as they prepare for a crucial match against Cincinnati.
Javier Mascherano, in his first season as head coach of Inter Miami, has led the team to a solid recovery after a rocky start. Despite early struggles, the Argentine manager remains focused on short-term goals as the Herons sit comfortably in fifth place in the Eastern Conference with 17 wins in 31 matches. As the team continues their push for a MLS playoff spot, Mascherano is not yet thinking about the future, emphasizing the importance of staying grounded and results-driven.
When Mascherano took over at Inter Miami, he faced significant challenges, especially during a tough stretch between April and May where his team managed only one win in eight matches. During this period, speculation about his future in charge was widespread, and his tenure seemed uncertain. However, the team’s performance at the Club World Cup, despite a Round of 16 exit, showed promise, and since then, Miami has bounced back with renewed energy and confidence.
Key to their resurgence has been Lionel Messi, who has found the net with remarkable consistency, scoring five consecutive braces in MLS games. This includes three victories following their return from international competition, pushing Miami to fifth place in the Eastern Conference and giving them a real shot at the postseason.
Despite Miami’s strong form and the increasing talk of long-term success, Mascherano remains firmly focused on the here and now. When asked about his future, the Argentine coach insisted that he is not looking beyond the current season.
“Personally, as a coach, I don’t look much further than the current season,” Mascherano said on Tuesday. “Thinking long-term in this job is a mistake because results are what keep you here. You have to stay focused and put all your energy into the present.”
This attitude underscores his commitment to delivering results and staying grounded, aware that his position—like every coach’s—is dependent on immediate performance and not long-term planning.
One notable subplot in the lead-up to Miami’s next match against FC Cincinnati is Messi’s goal drought against this particular opponent. Messi has yet to score against Cincinnati in his MLS career, and Mascherano joked that this could serve as extra motivation for his star player.
It’s great news, actually… because we all know Leo – every match gives him a new reason to be motivated,” Mascherano said with a smile. “Hopefully he can break that streak.
With Messi’s ever-present ability to find motivation in challenges, this could be the perfect opportunity for him to add another achievement to his illustrious career.
As Inter Miami prepares for the crucial match against Cincinnati on Wednesday, they will be missing Baltasar Rodríguez, who remains sidelined with a recurring hamstring injury. On a more positive note, Yannick Bright, Gonzalo Luján, and David Ruiz have all recovered from their respective injuries and are available for selection, adding depth to Mascherano’s squad.
With their playoff hopes alive and well, Inter Miami has crucial matches ahead, starting with their visit to Cincinnati. As the season progresses, Mascherano’s focus will remain on tactical adjustments and maintaining momentum to secure a spot in the postseason.
If Miami can continue their strong run of form, especially with Messi at the helm, they’ll be a formidable force in the final stretch of the regular season.
