The Messi factor: Mascherano's coaching challenge at Inter Miami

Lionel Messi's arrival at Inter Miami has sparked a revolution in US football. His presence has not only elevated the team's level but also generated a significant media and sporting impact. Javier Mascherano, Inter Miami's coach, has opened up about his relationship with Messi and revealed why he doesn't give the Argentine superstar tactical instructions.

Mutual Respect and Admiration

Mascherano and Messi share a long history together. They were teammates in the Argentine national team for many years, and now they reunite at Inter Miami, albeit in different roles. Mascherano, as coach, is responsible for guiding the team, while Messi, as a player, has the task of leading the team on the pitch.

The relationship between the two is built on mutual respect and admiration. Mascherano acknowledges Messi's quality and experience, while Messi values Mascherano's ability and leadership as a coach.

"It Would Be a Lack of Respect"

Mascherano has revealed that he doesn't give Messi tactical instructions because he considers it would be a lack of respect. "To a player like Messi, it would be a lack of respect to tell him where he has to receive the ball. Someone who has managed so well throughout his career the fact of finding spaces and where to move," Mascherano explained.

The Argentine coach trusts Messi's ability to find spaces and make the best decisions on the pitch. He knows that Messi has a special vision of football and is capable of creating danger at any moment.

Freedom and Comfort

Instead of giving instructions, Mascherano asks Messi to have the freedom to move around the pitch and find the spaces where he feels comfortable. "We do ask him, obviously, to have that freedom so that he finds those spaces to receive the ball, that he feels comfortable," Mascherano stated.

The Argentine coach also ensures that the team doesn't occupy Messi's spaces. "We try, above all, that the team doesn't occupy those spaces, which I think is the most important thing when you have a player like Messi," he added.

A Team at Messi's Service

Mascherano's strategy is based on freeing up spaces for Messi to move freely and create danger. "It's about trying to get the team to free up those spaces where he can move so that he has the possibility of finding that freedom and from there he makes us play," Mascherano explained.

The Argentine coach acknowledges that Messi sees football in a special way and is capable of making the team play. "It's quite simple because he's someone who sees football in a very special way," Mascherano concluded.

A Positive Impact

Messi's arrival at Inter Miami has had a positive impact on the team. His presence has created an atmosphere of enthusiasm and motivation, and his quality has elevated the team's level of play.

Mascherano believes that Messi is a fundamental player for Inter Miami and that his presence is key to achieving the team's objectives.

A Challenge for Mascherano

Coaching a player like Messi is a challenge for any coach. Mascherano has shown that he has the ability to manage Messi's presence in the team and to make the most of his talent.

A Relationship That Transcends Football

The relationship between Mascherano and Messi transcends football. They share a friendship that has strengthened over the years.

Inter Miami's Future

With Messi and Mascherano as leaders, Inter Miami has a promising future. The team seeks to consolidate itself in the MLS and become a benchmark in US football.