An Inter Miami executive has clarified whether Lionel Messi played a role in the appointment of their new manager.
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Following the Herons' unexpected MLS Cup elimination to Atlanta United, the club has decided to shake up their technical staff.
Argentine tactician Gerardo Martino resigned from as head coach, and with rumours suggesting that the record Ballon d'Or winner influenced the appointment of the former Barcelona and Argentina boss when he was hired in 2023, there were murmurings that Messi could have a say in the appointment of their new head coach as well.
According to The Athletic, the two candidates who were considered as successors to Martino were Xavi Hernandez and Javier Mascherano, both of whom share strong ties with the Rosario native.
They played alongside Messi for the Blaugrana and achieved tremendous success with the club during their tenures. However, the American franchise ultimately decided to appoint Mascherano as their new manager.
Club co-owner Jorge Mas has since revealed that Messi was consulted before the decision was made. He emphasised that discussions with superstar players over such decisions are a regular occurrence.
"I had a specific conversation with him. Leo gave me what I asked him, which was input," Mas told reporters during a press conference, as per Goal.
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"That was Leo's involvement and engagement with me, which (happens) frankly all the time."
