MLS champion joins Mascherano’s Inter Miami project

This Sunday, Inter Miami announced the coaching staff that will join Javier Mascherano as he begins his tenure this Saturday, coinciding with the start of the team’s preseason matches in preparation for the upcoming MLS campaign.

The former Argentine player will be supported by his trusted assistants, Lucas Rodríguez Pagano and Leandro Stillitano. Additionally, he will benefit from the expertise of Javier Morales, who will serve as his first assistant for the third consecutive year.

Morales played a pivotal role in Tata Martino’s coaching staff, contributing to Inter Miami’s success in winning the Leagues Cup and the Supporters' Shield. With 11 years of MLS playing experience and a 2009 MLS Cup title with Real Salt Lake—the only championship in that franchise’s history—Morales brings valuable familiarity with the league.

In 2023, the Argentine also served as interim head coach of Inter Miami. In 2022, he led the team’s U-17 squad to the semifinals of the adidas Generation Cup, secured first place in the U-17 East (South) Division, and guided them to the MLS NEXT U-17 playoffs.

Mascherano’s Coaching Staff

Mascherano’s staff includes Lucas Rodríguez Pagano, who worked alongside him with Argentina’s Under-20 and Under-23 teams. Pagano also brings experience as a youth team coordinator for Lanús and as an assistant at Vélez Sarsfield in 2017.

Leandro Stillitano, another trusted colleague, has served as an assistant coach with several prominent clubs, including Independiente in Argentina, Xolos de Tijuana in Mexico, and Colo Colo in Chile.

Mauro Dobler will take on the role of goalkeeping coach, having worked with the Argentine Football Association (AFA) since 2019. Dobler notably played a key role in developing Emiliano ‘Dibu’ Martínez, who won the Best Goalkeeper award at the FIFA ‘The Best’ Awards.

The technical team also includes Pablo Blanco as the physical trainer, with Lucio Stortoni and Erik Marquis serving as video analysts.

Related stories

CONCACAF Champions Cup

Prices to see Messi and Miami in the Champions Cup

MLS

Messi’s next games revealed

Mascherano will make his coaching debut with the ‘Herons’ this Saturday, January 18, when Inter Miami face Liga MX powerhouse Club América, a three-time league champion, in Las Vegas.

Get your game on! Whether you’re into NFL touchdowns, NBA buzzer-beaters, world-class soccer goals, or MLB home runs, our app has it all. Dive into live coverage, expert insights, breaking news, exclusive videos, and more – plus, stay updated on the latest in current affairs and entertainment. Download now for all-access coverage, right at your fingertips – anytime, anywhere.