MLS Manager Defies Red Card Ban, Secretly Coaches Team via Phone Call from Stands

Inter Miami secured a 2-1 victory over Tigres in Wednesday's 2025 Leagues Cup quarterfinal match. Miami accomplished this feat not only without Lionel Messi, who was sidelined with a hamstring problem, but also managed the entire second half without head coach Javier Mascherano on the sidelines.

Well, sort of.

Mascherano received a red card as the first half concluded, preventing him from being present on the touchline with his squad after the break. Instead of retreating to the locker room in frustration, Mascherano secured a strategic position behind the team bench and contacted his assistant coach via mobile phone.

FS1 cameras initially captured Mascherano placing his hand over his mouth while attempting to relay instructions to the bench, but clearly, the audio communication proved challenging. Moments later, he grabbed his mobile device and seemingly contacted assistant Lucas Rodriguez Pagano, who was visible on the sideline holding his phone as though conducting a speakerphone conversation.

Witnessing any coach utilize a telephone during a professional sporting event creates an absolutely surreal spectacle. This scenario evokes memories of Bobby Valentine's disguise incident with fake facial hair and eyewear following his ejection, raising the legitimate question: is it technically against regulations for a coach or manager to literally conduct business via phone during active play?

The tournament officials might need to address this unprecedented situation.