Javier Mascherano hits out over Liverpool ‘lies’

Former Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has blamed the Merseyside club’s “lies” for his departure from Anfield.

Mascherano, who completed his £20m move to Barcelona this summer, said the reason he decided to leave Liverpool was because of broken promises from the club, rather than because of his family’s inability to settle on Merseyside, as was widely reported.

“When they started to involve my family and to say things that didn’t make sense, I obviously suffered,” the Argentine explained.

“They’d promised me something for a whole year and they never fulfilled their promise. And that didn’t have anything to do with my family or anything else. When you read or hear lies, you obviously get angry.”

Mascherano praised his new club for their efforts to ensure a deal could be completed quickly, with reports suggesting the Argentina captain took a considerable pay-cut in order to secure a move to the Catalonia.

“I’d also like to thank the club for their efforts. They’ve spent a lot of money and it was my duty to give way a bit to make this dream come true. When this chance came up I didn’t hesitate. I’ve joined the best club in the world and the best team in the world.”

Mascherano was quick to praise former Liverpool boss Rafael Benítez, who he claims has had a major impact upon his career, thanking the new Inter Milan boss for showing confidence in him after his disappointing spell at West Ham.

“Rafa taught me tactics,” he added. “He’s one of the coaches who have taught me the most in my career and I’m very grateful to him.” He said.

“He was fundamental. He gave me the chance to join Liverpool. He had confidence in me at a time when, perhaps, nobody would have dreamed of giving me an opportunity. I’ll be grateful to him all my life.”