"I think it’s pretty clear" - MLS legend claims Lionel Messi is the reason for Tata Martino leaving Inter Miami

MLS legend Landon Donovan believes Lionel Messi could be a key reason behind the exit of Tata Martino and the hiring of Javier Mascherano. The former Fulham star believes that the Argentine and his teammates would have taken the call after their failure to beat Atlanta United and progress in the MLS Cup.

Speaking on Unfiltered Soccer, Donovan claimed that Martino might have been forced to leave by Inter Miami. He adds that the decision to leave, followed by the club's quick move to hire Messi's former teammate Mascherano, shows that it was all in the works behind the scenes. He said:

“Usually I think when a manager says they’re stepping away, that means the club pushed you out. I will say, as someone as experienced as Tata Martino, I could see a scenario where he’s said: ‘I truly need to step away for a while.’

"However, that all changed when all these Mascherano rumors began. If he steps away and you have a decision the next day, guess what, that decision is being made for months ahead of time. I think it’s pretty clear what happened here, I think Leo and everyone said: ‘It’s been great, but if we don’t win it [MLS Cup], this is what’s going to happen, he’s going to resign and we’re going to bring in our boy.'”

Inter Miami, led by Lionel Messi, finished the MLS season with record points but failed to get past Atlanta United in the MLS Cup playoffs.

Javier Mascherano honored to manage Lionel Messi-led Inter Miami

Javier Mascherano spoke to Inter Miami's official website after he was appointed as the new manager and admitted that he was honored to get the role. He added that the aim is to take the club further in the raise the standards.

Lionel Messi's former Barcelona teammate said:

“To be able to lead a club like Inter Miami is an honor for me, and a privilege I will strive to make the most of. I was drawn to the organization’s undeniable ambition, and the infrastructure it has to support it. I’m looking forward to working with the people at Inter Miami to help the Club reach new heights, and to give the fans more unforgettable moments.”

Lionel Messi played 414 matches with Javier Mascherano for Barcelona and Argentina. The Inter Miami star has assisted his new manager twice, while scoring once through a pass from the former defender.