Inter Miami’s manager, Guillermo Hoyos, highlighted the importance of privacy as Lionel Messi returns to football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi.
Jorge Messi passed away on August 8 in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, at the age of 68.
“I believe it’s essential for everything to unfold gradually; there’s profound grief involved that won’t change overnight,” Hoyos stated on Friday.
“Therefore, I think silence, tranquility, and peace are the best approaches. We need to allow him to find his own moments, and we should stand by him in that silence. To me, silence is crucial as it eventually leads one to a path forward. He is an extraordinary person with a beautifully supportive family.”
Messi flew into Rosario on Saturday night, reportedly attending a private memorial service before returning to Miami and rejoining Inter Miami for their Leagues Cup match against Club León on Wednesday at Nu Stadium.
During the match, Messi began on the bench but was substituted in at halftime, receiving a standing ovation as he stepped onto the pitch.
Regarding Messi’s dedication to the team, Hoyos expressed, “There are no words. I can’t fully express his value as a person. It’s not merely about his skills as a player; it’s his worth as an incredible human being with a big heart. Sometimes, words fall short.”
On Friday morning, Messi practiced with the team, preparing for Inter Miami’s upcoming match against Nashville SC in MLS action on Saturday.
When asked about managing Messi’s minutes and communicating with the team captain for future matches, Hoyos reiterated the significance of silence.
“Some things are profoundly private. Just as each of you has your own private matters,” Hoyos remarked. “If I were to ask you personal questions, you might respond, ‘This is private.’
“That is why I emphasize silence; it’s something that many people underestimate. They tend to enjoy talking and sharing opinions. Personally, I believe in respecting those boundaries. He is just someone facing natural challenges, and we honor that deeply.”
Following the match at Geodis Park, Miami will travel to face Philadelphia Union next Wednesday.