With Tata Martino stepping down as Inter Miami’s manager for personal reasons, the club now faces the challenge of appointing a new leader to guide their star-studded squad. The incoming coach will need to harness the talents of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets, and Jordi Alba while navigating the complexities of managing one of Major League Soccer’s most high-profile teams.Here are the leading candidates being considered for the prestigious role.Xavi HernandezAs a former teammate of Messi at Barcelona, Xavi Hernandez offers a blend of familiarity and tactical acumen. The duo played nearly 300 matches together, achieving numerous accolades, including the 2015 Champions League title alongside Busquets, Alba, and Luis Suarez.Xavi has proven his managerial capabilities by leading Barcelona to a La Liga and Spanish Supercopa double in the 2022-23 season. Additionally, his success with Al Sadd in Qatar, where he secured seven trophies in three seasons, further bolsters his credentials.His established relationships with many Miami players and his ability to instill a cohesive identity make him a logical choice.”It needs to be someone who can command the dressing room.”@Nicocantor1, @susannahcollins, @IFTVMarco, and @NotAlexis debate who would be the right fit to become the next manager of Inter Miami 🗣️ pic.twitter.com/6RycEy0vfE— CBS Sports Golazo ⚽️ (@CBSSportsGolazo) November 20, 2024 Zinedine ZidaneA dream appointment for Inter Miami, Zinedine Zidane is one of the most accomplished managers in modern football. The former Real Madrid coach boasts an enviable trophy haul, including three Champions League titles and two La Liga crowns, achieved during two managerial stints in Madrid.Zidane’s reputation as a tactician and his ability to manage superstar egos could make him a perfect fit for Messi and Miami’s star-laden squad. However, luring Zidane to MLS might prove challenging, as he’s widely rumored to be eyeing the French national team job. Still, his connections with Miami co-owner David Beckham, with whom he played at Real Madrid, could sway his decision.Federico HiguainFederico Higuain, currently managing Inter Miami II in MLS NEXT Pro, is a strong internal candidate. The former MLS star has already found success with Miami’s reserve side, securing a playoff berth in 2024.Higuain’s familiarity with the club’s culture, his bilingual skills, and his deep understanding of MLS operations make him a practical choice. Promoting from within could also ensure continuity and a smooth transition for the players.🚨 Xavi and Javier Mascherano have emerged as options for head coach at Inter Miami! 👔🇺🇸Both are former teammates of Leo Messi. 👀(Source: @MiamiHerald) pic.twitter.com/7ofnJsZ0K9— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) November 20, 2024 Javier MascheranoAnother potential reunion for Messi, Javier Mascherano played alongside the Argentine legend at Barcelona and for their national team. Known for his leadership and tactical intelligence as a player, Mascherano has begun to establish himself as a coach, leading Argentina’s U-20 team and guiding them to the quarter-finals of the Paris Olympics.While still early in his coaching career, Mascherano’s close relationship with Messi and his experience working with young talents could make him an attractive option for Miami.Thierry HenryThierry Henry, a former Barcelona teammate of Messi, is another candidate with the pedigree to take on the Miami job. The French legend recently coached France’s U23 team to a silver medal at the Paris Olympics and has prior managerial experience with Monaco and CF Montreal in MLS.Although his past stints as a head coach have been inconsistent, Henry’s familiarity with the league and his connection to Messi could make him an intriguing choice. Whether he is ready to return to full-time management remains uncertain.##NAJAVA_MECA_8514984##Inter Miami’s next managerial appointment is crucial, particularly as they prepare for what could be Lionel Messi’s final season in Florida. The club has a history of ambitious moves, and fans will be eager to see whether they opt for an established global name or a trusted, pragmatic choice to build on Martino’s foundation.
