Lionel Messi reportedly to receive major boost as Inter Miami signs former Atletico Madrid executive

Inter Miami are reportedly set to give Lionel Messi a major boost by signing a former Atlético Madrid executive to strengthen the club’s roster and sporting operations.

Since Lionel Messi’s arrival, Inter Miami have become one of Major League Soccer’s fastest-growing franchises, investing heavily in infrastructure and talent to support their ambitious expansion plans. Now, the club is reportedly set to receive a significant off-field boost with the addition of a seasoned executive from Atletico Madrid.

One of the most unstable positions in the organization has been that of Chief Soccer Officer (CSO). In early 2024, both Chris Henderson and Raul Sanllehi occupied the role, but club president Jorge Mas ultimately parted ways with both, prompting another major shake-up in the club’s sporting leadership.

According to GIVEMESPORT‘s Tom Bogert, Inter Miami CF have appointed Alberto Marrero as their new CSO. Marrero has long-standing ties to Atletico Madrid, where he held various roles in football operations since 2010. He also played a key role in the club’s international expansion, working with subsidiaries in France and India.

Marrero later served as CEO of Liga MX side Atletico San Luis, adding valuable North American experience to his resume. With that track record, Inter Miami hope Marrero will bring long-awaited stability and vision to a position that’s been in flux for months. His appointment also comes at a crucial time, with key players like Luis Suarez having voiced concerns about roster depth ahead of a demanding campaign.

A key role in the Messi era

The CSO position has been a revolving door for Inter Miami in recent years. The situation became more complex at the start of 2024, when Raul Sanllehi was reportedly removed from all sporting decision-making responsibilities.

In January, Sanllehi was reassigned to focus on strategic matters related to FIFA, MLS, and CONMEBOL, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. Since then, Guillermo Hoyos, the club’s academy director, has informally filled the role, but without an official appointment, the sporting leadership has lacked continuity.

As of April 1, Inter Miami’s official website still listed Sanllehi as the President of Soccer Operations, despite being out of the role for nearly three months. With Alberto Marrero’s arrival, the club aims to solidify its soccer structure and lay the foundation for a more stable and successful Messi-led era.