Who Is Cristian “Kily” González, Lionel Messi’s New Manager at Inter Miami?
Inter Miami Set to Replace Guillermo Hoyos Before MLS Playoffs
Inter Miami are reportedly preparing to make another change at manager after a brutal five-game stretch. Guillermo Hoyos, who took over after Javier Mascherano resigned in April, has appeared out of his depth in recent weeks.
Cristian Gonzalez, better known as “Kily” Gonzalez, is expected to replace Hoyos. Miami hope the Argentine coach can turn the team’s fortunes around just before the MLS playoffs begin.
Team captain Lionel Messi has continued to play at an exceptional level since returning from Argentina following the death of his father. However, the rest of the Inter Miami squad has struggled significantly.
Kily Gonzalez Has a Longstanding Connection With Lionel Messi
Like Miami’s previous three managers, all of whom were born in Argentina, Gonzalez has a personal connection with Messi. Both Gonzalez and Messi were born in Rosario, and they spent time together with the Argentina national team during two qualifying matches ahead of the 2006 FIFA World Cup.
In 2022, shortly after Argentina won the FIFA World Cup, Gonzalez greeted Messi and Angel Di Maria when both players arrived in Rosario. Gonzalez and Messi also participated in Maxi Rodriguez’s farewell match in the city.
Gonzalez Brings Limited Recent Managerial Experience
Gonzalez does not have the strongest managerial résumé. He spent fewer than two years in charge of both Rosario Central and Union Santa Fe. His most recent spell, with Platense, lasted only 132 days.
- Platense: 2 wins, 5 draws, 7 losses
- Union Santa Fe: 25 wins, 25 draws, 27 losses
- Rosario Central: 25 wins, 14 draws, 29 losses
Inter Miami are hoping Gonzalez can bring a different approach as the club prepares for the MLS playoffs.
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