These challenges await Inter Miami's new coach

The departure of Gerardo ‘Tata’ Martino leaves many doubts around the Herons and the next person in will have big tests ahead.

After leading Inter Miami to a historic 2024 MLS season, Gerardo “Tata” Martino has announced his departure from the club. Under his leadership, the team clinched its first-ever Supporters’ Shield and shattered the league’s single-season points record, cementing their place in MLS history. However, Martino will step away due to personal reasons, marking the end of an era for the Fort Lauderdale-based franchise.

Despite their domestic success, Inter Miami fell short in the CONCACAF Champions Cup and the MLS Cup Playoffs. These mixed results leave the club with significant challenges heading into 2025, including another shot at CONCACAF glory, a FIFA Club World Cup campaign on home soil, and maintaining their dominance in Major League Soccer.

A new era: who will lead Inter Miami next?

As Martino exits, the hunt begins for a new coach capable of managing a roster that includes global icons like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. The team’s ambitions remain sky-high, with ownership aiming for continued growth on and off the pitch. Questions linger about the futures of key players like Jordi Alba—whose contract includes an extension option—and Luis Suárez, whose deal has expired. Yet the organization appears confident that its core stars will remain.

Sources, including the Miami Herald, suggest high-profile candidates like Xavi Hernández and Javier Mascherano could be in the running. There is also a former Real Madrid and Liverpool manager in the rumor mill. Whoever steps into the role will need to design a system that maximizes Messi’s strengths while accommodating his evolving style as he ages.

The bigger picture: Inter Miami’s international aspirations

Jorge Mas, David Beckham, and Jose Mas are building more than just a team—they’re creating a global brand. For Inter Miami to achieve their lofty goals, they’ll need to excel in major tournaments and capitalize on the worldwide attention Messi brings to the club. Their ultimate vision? To solidify the franchise as an international powerhouse by 2026, when the long-awaited Miami Freedom Park opens its doors.

Originally slated for 2025, the state-of-the-art stadium is now expected to debut in 2026. The privately funded venue will feature 25,000 seats, cutting-edge technology, retail spaces, restaurants, and more. It’s poised to be a landmark for both the city of Miami and the club’s future.

What’s next for Inter Miami?

The 2025 season will test Inter Miami’s resilience. With a new coach, fresh competitions, and the looming milestone of Miami Freedom Park, the club’s trajectory hinges on how they navigate this transitional phase. The stakes couldn’t be higher, but if their recent success is any indication, the Herons are ready to rise to the occasion.