Guillermo Hoyos has made it clear that despite his long-standing friendship with Lionel Messi, he will be pushing the Argentine superstar hard during training sessions as he takes on the role of head coach for MLS club Inter Miami, a position he was announced for on Wednesday.
Hoyos, who previously served as the sporting director for Miami, steps in to replace Javier Mascherano, who left the organisation on Tuesday citing “personal reasons.” Mascherano had led the club to its inaugural MLS Cup title just four months prior.
The 62-year-old Hoyos was a significant figure in Messi’s early career, having mentored him while he was part of Barcelona’s youth team over twenty years ago, and the duo has maintained a close relationship ever since.
“Friendship is something that cannot be compromised. We have shared a bond for many years,” Hoyos stated in Spanish during his inaugural press conference.
“Nonetheless, that friendship does not mean we will be constantly hovering or micromanaging him every single day.“
Initially, the club’s statement indicated that Hoyos would oversee the team for the “upcoming matches,” but recent social media updates from the club have designated him as the head coach.
Sources within the club have informed AFP that Hoyos is likely to remain in charge only until mid-year, with a new coaching team expected to be established prior to the start of the Leagues Cup in August.
As of now, after seven rounds of play this season, Inter Miami currently holds the third spot in the MLS Eastern Conference.
Messi, who is a World Cup champion from 2022 and an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is undoubtedly the standout player on Miami’s roster.
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