Guillermo Hoyos has stated that his longstanding friendship with Lionel Messi will not prevent him from pushing the Argentine superstar hard during training, as he was introduced as the new coach of MLS club Inter Miami on Wednesday.
Hoyos, who previously served as Miami’s sporting director, steps in for Javier Mascherano, who left the club for “personal reasons” on Tuesday, just four months after leading the team to its first MLS Cup victory.
At 62 years of age, Hoyos was a pivotal mentor to Messi during his time with Barcelona’s youth academy more than 20 years ago, and the duo have maintained a strong bond ever since.
“Friendship is non-negotiable. We share a bond that has lasted for many years,” Hoyos remarked during his inaugural press conference, speaking in Spanish.
“However, that friendship doesn’t mean we’ll be crowding him or being in his face every single day.“
An official club statement initially indicated that Hoyos would lead the team for the “upcoming matches,” but the club has subsequently referred to him as the head coach in various social media updates.
Club sources informed AFP that Hoyos is anticipated to be in charge only until mid-year, with a new coaching arrangement expected to be set by the start of the Leagues Cup in August.
After seven matches this season, Inter Miami currently occupies third place in the MLS Eastern Conference.
Messi, who was part of the victorious 2022 World Cup team and has claimed the Ballon d’Or eight times, is undoubtedly the star attraction of Miami’s squad.
Compiled by SportArena.au
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