Guillermo Hoyos Vows Tough Training For Lionel Messi At Inter Miami

Guillermo Hoyos has insisted his long-standing friendship with Lionel Messi will not soften his approach after being unveiled as the new head coach of Inter Miami.

The Argentine was presented to the media on Wednesday, less than 24 hours after the club confirmed the departure of Javier Mascherano for personal reasons. Naija News reports that Mascherano leaves only four months after leading Miami to their first MLS Cup triumph.

Hoyos, who previously served as the club’s sporting director, steps into the role with deep ties to Messi dating back more than two decades. The pair first crossed paths at the famed youth academy of FC Barcelona and have remained close ever since.

Speaking in Spanish at his first press conference, Hoyos made clear that personal bonds would not interfere with professional demands.

“Friendship is non-negotiable. We share a friendship that spans many years,” he said.

“However, that friendship does not mean that we will be constantly hovering over him or in his face every single day.”

An initial club statement said Hoyos would take charge of the team for the “upcoming matches”. However, social media posts later described him as head coach, signalling a more formal appointment.

The 62-year-old is expected to remain in charge until mid-year, with a new coaching structure planned before the start of the Leagues Cup in August.

After seven matches this season, Miami sit third in the Eastern Conference of Major League Soccer, keeping them firmly in contention early in the campaign.

Messi, who captained Argentina to victory at the FIFA World Cup, remains the centrepiece of the club’s ambitions as Miami aim to build on last season’s success under their new interim boss.