Javier Mascherano ready to deliver despite lack of experience

Inter Miami's Javier Mascherano, aged 40, is poised to address the doubts surrounding his managerial capabilities as he embarks on this new role with limited experience.

He expressed his determination during a press conference on Tuesday, where he reunited with his former Barcelona and Argentina colleague, Lionel Messi, who is 37 years old, at the MLS club.

Team owner Jorge Mas appeared to validate the suspicions of many fans by stating this week that Messi played a role in the decision to appoint Mascherano, as reported by various media outlets, following their extensive time together on the field for both club and country.

Although Mascherano has not previously managed a club, having coached Argentina's youth teams since retiring four years ago, he expressed confidence in his ability to succeed despite his brief coaching history.

"Naturally, people will have their opinions, and that is entirely valid," he remarked to reporters on Tuesday through an interpreter. "I am confident in my capabilities. I have no doubts."

Mascherano's appointment as head coach came shortly after Gerardo 'Tata' Martino resigned from the position, following the team's unexpected first-round exit in the MLS Cup playoffs against ninth-seed Atlanta United last month.

Having won two Champions League titles, five La Liga championships, five Copa del Rey titles, and two Club World Cups with Barcelona, Mascherano acknowledged his lack of experience in the North American top flight but emphasized that the team's performance would serve as evidence of his competence.

"I have been coaching for three years and have worked with youth teams in Argentina, where there is always pressure, even at that level," he stated. "Additionally, I bring with me 20 years of professional experience and everything I have encountered along the way," added the former defensive midfielder, who also had stints with Liverpool, River Plate, and Corinthians.

In this new role, Mascherano will be managing his former Barcelona teammates, including Luis Suarez, Jordi Alba, and Sergio Busquets, alongside Messi.

The team encounters increased pressure as the new year approaches, following FIFA's contentious decision to grant them a place in the Club World Cup due to their victory in the "Supporters' Shield" for finishing first in the MLS standings during the regular season.

"We understand that we will be competing against formidable and historically significant teams. However, this kind of competition also provides an opportunity for growth," stated Mascherano.

The expanded Club World Cup is set to take place in the United States from June 15 to July 13 of the upcoming year.