- Javier Mascherano did not violate Leagues Cup rules
- Miami coach seen giving instructions via phone
- Argentine is subject to disciplinary action for being sent off
Leagues Cup officials confirmed that manager Javier Mascherano did not violate rules by using his cellphone to talk to his assistant from the stands after being sent off in Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match on Wednesday night, according to The Athletic.
The Argentine manager was sent off at half time, but then was seen in the stands in the 58th minute, barking instructions through his cellphone to assistant Lucas Rodriguez Pagano on the touchline.
It remains unclear whether Mascherano violated competition rules by coaching after being sent off. Coaches who are removed from play typically view from the locker room or further back in the stands. On site, a Leagues Cup spokesperson confirmed that coaches are not allowed to give instructions.
Using a cell phone, though, is largely uncharted territory.
A spokesperson didn’t rule out further disclipnary action for Mascherano, but insisted that he was allowed to use his cell phone: “The Inter Miami head coach was located in a space designated according to tournament regulations. Cellphone communications are not prohibited per Leagues Cup regulations in this instance.”
Red cards typically carry one-game bans, and it’s possible that he could face further disciplinary action. Miami’s next game is an MLS fixture with D.C. United on Aug. 23.
