Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023, reuniting with Gerardo Martino, his former coach at Barcelona and the Argentina national team. They won the 2023 Leagues Cup, marking the club’s first major title.
Despite a successful spell, Martino stepped down in November 2024, with one year left on his contract. In an interview with The Athletic, he revealed that Messi was the first person he told about his decision.
“I called Leo and shared that I needed to be in Rosario (Argentina) for personal reasons, and that the first half of the year would be challenging for me. Once I clarified it wasn’t health-related but a serious personal matter, he understood and respected my choice. It wasn’t a debate, just something I needed to communicate before discussing it with the club and players,” said Martino.
At that time, Inter Miami was at the top of the standings and a favorite for the playoffs. Under Martino’s leadership, the team—led by Messi—wacked 35 out of 67 matches, with 16 losses and 16 draws, earning 62% of the potential points.
Lionel Messi plays against Orlando City as Gerardo Martino watches from the sideline. (Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
“Coaching the best player in the world at that time was a great honor. It was a tough choice to leave since I believed in the project’s potential for growth. Ultimately, personal reasons led to my resignation instead of completing my contract through 2025. Staying was not an option,” Martino added.
Martino’s achievements with Inter Miami
During his time as coach, Martino guided Inter Miami to the 2023 Leagues Cup shortly after Messi joined from Paris Saint-Germain and finished as runner-up in the 2023 US Open Cup. The following year, the team clinched the 2024 Supporters’ Shield by amassing the highest points in the regular season.
Considering the club’s short seven-year history created by David Beckham, these achievements were notable. Current coach Javier Mascherano aims to secure the MLS trophy and uphold the winning spirit established by Martino.