OFFICIAL: Tata Martino confirms Inter Miami exit

Gerardo 'Tata' Martino is no longer Inter Miami's head coach. The official announcement arrived on Friday as the Argentinian confirmed his exit during an end of season press conference alongside team co-owner Jorge Mas and president of football operations Raul Sanllehi. 

'GIVEMESPORT' first reported the news earlier this week in an exclusive which revealed that Martino's decision to leave before the end of his contract was due to "personal reasons". During the press conference, Martino said: "It has been an honor to work at such a special club and to lead such a special team. I’ve enjoyed my stay at Inter Miami and will treasure the memories made and relationships forged here for the rest of my life. I depart with nothing but gratitude for my time here and would like to offer sincere thanks to everyone who made it possible."

Since joining Inter Miami last June - as part of the transformation of the club alongisde the arrival of Lionel Messi - Martino has enjoyed plenty of successful moments at the Florida side. He led Inter Miami Leagues Cup glory, a joint tournament between MLS and Mexican Liga MX clubs, in his first season in charge. This year, he dominated the regular season, winning the Supporters' Shield for the team with the best overall record.

However, his first major stumble arrived when he lost out to former club Atlanta in a best-of-three opening round to the MLS Cup playoffs. The exit was seen as a major upset by most, as Miami were seen as favourites to claim the trophy, and also stirred controversy in relation to their place in next year's Club World Cup. Critics contested FIFA's decision to hand the club a seat in the tournament before the end of the MLS Cup. Javier Mascherano will now reportedly be named Inter Miami head coach for the upcoming season.

 

November 22, 2024