Barcelona and Argentina icon Javier Mascherano has revealed that after he calls time on his playing career he wants to move into coaching but admits that a role in the dugout is far more difficult than the one he currently does on the pitch.

The 31-year-old Argentina vice-captain told Radio Metro: “I would like to become a coach. As a player, things are easier, but it gets more complicated when you go on the other side.”

Having worked under a variety of top managers in a glittering career, Mascherano will hope to have picked up plenty of knowledge and admitted: “I want to pass on everything my coaches taught me, football is a cycle.”

One manager perhaps more than most that El Jefecito will want to follow in the footsteps of is his former Barcelona manager, Pep Guardiola. Speaking on the subject of Guardiola’s time at Barca, Mascherano explained how the current Bayern Munich manager molded him into a central defender, having spent his career up until that point as a defensive midfielder.

“At that time, many central defenders were injured and Sergio Busquets had emerged in midfield. Guardiola noticed my characteristics and physique and liked what he saw when he put me in defence.

“I came to Barcelona knowing I was signed as a backup and it would be very difficult to hold down a place in midfield. Obviously I would have fought for my place but one of the best in the world was playing in my position.

“Meanwhile with Argentina I was made captain and had to win my place on two fronts. Over time though, I’ve managed to earn my place.”

Mascherano started his career back in 2003 with River Plate and after his former club lifted the Copa Libertadores this year, in December he could line up for Barcelona against his childhood club at the Club World Cup. When asked about this possible clash, Mascherano said: “No, this match doesn’t bother me, but it will be a strange situation because I have a relationship with (coach Marcelo) Gallardo and I’ve played with (Javier) Saviola and Lucho González, but mostly because I identify strongly with River.”

The tournament in Japan will have no room for sentiment though and Mascherano stated that the Club World Cup “is a very important title because it is the possibility of being the best team in the world.”

Mascherano’s love for River may remain strong but it will not prevent him wanting to add yet another title to his collection of Barcelona honours. If and when the day comes that El Jefecito moves into management perhaps River Plate would be a good first destination.