Gerardo “Tata” Martino has lastly addressed his sudden departure from Inter Miami, a transfer that shocked each MLS followers and gamers after a yr of regular progress. In his first main interview since leaving, the Argentine coach revealed that his resolution was not influenced by disagreements with David Beckham’s possession group or the membership’s entrance workplace. As an alternative, it was a deeply private matter that compelled him to step away.
Martino advised The Athletic that the primary particular person he known as earlier than informing the membership was Lionel Messi. “I known as Leo and defined that I had a private must be in Rosario, that the primary half of the yr can be sophisticated for me,” Martino stated. “As soon as I advised him it wasn’t a well being downside however one thing very private, he understood. It wasn’t up for debate, simply one thing I wanted to speak. After that, I spoke with the entrance workplace after which with the gamers.”
The revelation clears up months of hypothesis about potential friction throughout the membership. Martino careworn that his relationship with each Messi and Inter Miami’s possession remained robust all through his tenure.
A profitable but short-lived cycle
Throughout Martino’s yr in cost, Inter Miami dominated the common season. Beneath his management, the group gained 35 of 67 matches, misplaced 16, and drew 16, securing 62% of the out there factors.
Lionel Messi and Gerardo Martino had their second expertise collectively, the earlier one being with the Argentine nationwide group.
He guided the membership to its first-ever Leagues Cup title in 2023, shortly after Messi’s arrival from Europe. Miami additionally reached the ultimate of the U.S. Open Cup, narrowly shedding in a dramatic finale, and captured the 2024 MLS Supporters’ Protect, marking the franchise’s largest achievement to this point.
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“It can all the time be an honor to have coached one of the best participant on the earth,” Martino mirrored. “The mission nonetheless had potential, however I couldn’t end my last yr. It was purely private. There was no approach I may keep.”
Addressing rumors
Media shops near the membership had speculated that Martino’s resignation was tied to staffing modifications in Miami’s sporting division. Martino dismissed these claims outright, insisting that there have been no inner conflicts. As an alternative, he gave his full backing to Javier Mascherano, his successor, whom he believes is totally ready to lead Inter Miami to its first MLS Cup.
For Martino, the chapter is closed, however his impression on Inter Miami is simple. In simply seven years of existence, the membership has already lifted worldwide silverware, attracted international consideration, and positioned itself as one among MLS’s powerhouses—all below his watch.
As Miami now chases an elusive MLS championship, the story has shifted to Messi’s potential contract renewal and whether or not Mascherano can end what Martino began.
