Guillermo Hoyos has been unveiled as the new head coach of Inter Miami CF, pledging that his long-standing friendship with Lionel Messi will not affect his professionalism.

Hoyos, who previously served as the club’s sporting director, replaces Javier Mascherano, who stepped down for personal reasons just months after leading the team to its first MLS Cup title.

The 62-year-old coach has a deep history with Messi, having mentored him during his early years at FC Barcelona’s youth academy.

Despite their close relationship, Hoyos made it clear that standards will remain high.

“Friendship is non-negotiable… but that doesn’t mean we won’t demand the best from him,” he said during his unveiling.

 

While the club initially indicated Hoyos would oversee only upcoming matches, he has since been presented as the team’s head coach, though reports suggest his tenure may be temporary until a new setup is introduced before the Leagues Cup in August.

Currently, Inter Miami sits third in the MLS Eastern Conference after seven matches, with Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and 2022 World Cup champion, remaining the team’s key figure.