Gerardo “Tata” Martino has decided to step down as the head coach of Inter Miami, citing personal reasons. This news was reported by several outlets on Tuesday.
Martino led the team to an incredible season, with Inter Miami setting a new MLS record of 74 points (22 wins, 4 losses, and 8 draws). They also won the Supporters’ Shield for the best regular-season record. However, despite their strong performance, the team was knocked out of the MLS Cup playoffs in the first round by Atlanta United, who were seeded ninth.
Inter Miami has scheduled a press conference for Friday, where Martino and the team’s executives are expected to address the situation.
Martino, 61, joined Inter Miami in June 2023 after a tough exit from his previous role as coach of Mexico’s national team. He left that position after Mexico didn’t make it out of the group stage in the 2022 World Cup, a first in almost 45 years for the country.
During his time with Inter Miami, Martino helped the team win the Leagues Cup 2023, following the arrival of superstar players like Lionel Messi and Sergio Busquets. Before joining Miami, Martino was also successful with Atlanta United, leading them to an MLS Cup victory in 2018. He left the team after that season, again for personal reasons.
While Martino’s time at Inter Miami was marked by some big wins, his decision to step down comes as a surprise to many fans.