Inter Miami CF’s new interim head coach, Guillermo Hoyos, expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to work alongside Lionel Messi once more. Hoyos defended his long-standing friendship with the Argentine superstar, which dates back over 20 years to their time together at Barcelona‘s prestigious La Masia academy.
Messi, during a 2005 news conference, reflected on how much Hoyos influenced his career. He noted their connection and the guidance Hoyos provided throughout his early years.
“From the moment he arrived at Barcelona, he was incredibly supportive. He offered advice, taught me valuable lessons, and did everything he could to help me reach my current status in the first division,” Messi remarked.
Now, the duo will reunite as Hoyos steps in for Javier Mascherano, who has left the coaching role.
Inter Miami officially announced that Hoyos will lead the team for the upcoming matches, emphasizing his commitment to the club.
“I am here to serve the club, and that means embracing a new role. Just a couple of days ago, I held a different position, but now I’m available for whatever the club requires. We’re on the front lines together,” Hoyos stated at a Wednesday press conference.
“Friendship cannot be negotiated. We share a bond that spans many years, and it’s common among players with whom we’ve collaborated in various countries. However, that friendship does not mean we should be overly present around him every day,” he added.
“I believe in respecting his privacy and everything else. We must exercise prudence and proceed thoughtfully, growing and evolving within this new dynamic. Working alongside the greatest player in history is a unique experience on the field, and I am immensely grateful for it.”
Mascherano’s resignation was officially announced on Tuesday, citing “personal reasons” for his departure.
According to an ESPN source, he communicated this decision to Inter Miami over the weekend, following a 2-2 draw against the New York Red Bulls.
Hoyos later revealed that he had been informed by a member of the front office about his new role as interim coach.
“The news was communicated to me by staff from the sporting director’s department, which includes several members, and one of them notified me,” he shared.
Inter Miami will next face the Colorado Rapids this Saturday at Empower Field at Mile High Stadium.