ไทย
English
中國人
Inter Miami head coach Guillermo Hoyos has emphasized the importance of "silence, tranquility and peace" as Lionel Messi navigates the recent loss of his father, Jorge.
On Aug. 8, it was confirmed that Jorge Messi, who devoted his life to guiding his son's iconic career, passed away at the age of 68. The football community united in grief over the former steel factory worker, whom Messi described as a "dad, friend and mentor" in a heartfelt farewell posted on social media.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or recipient hinted at retirement in his open letter, questioning whether he would continue playing "much longer" without his father at his side. Nevertheless, Messi returned to the pitch for Inter Miami just four days after Jorge's death, and the club has offered him unwavering support as he copes with such a profound loss.
"I think everything needs to unfold gradually; there is deep pain involved, and this isn't something that changes overnight," Hoyos said on Friday.
"So, I believe silence is the best approach, silence, tranquility and peace, allowing him to find his own moments. We need to stand by him, sharing in that silence. To me, silence is important; that helps one eventually find a way forward. He is truly a wonderful person, and he has a wonderful family."
How Hoyos Plans to Manage Messi's Return
Messi came on as a substitute in Inter Miami's 3–2 loss to Club León, as the team sought to advance to the Leagues Cup knockout rounds. However, there were no standout moments on Wednesday evening, and the Herons were eliminated from the tournament in Phase One.
The defending MLS Cup champions must now shift their focus back to league play. Inter Miami face Nashville SC on Saturday before hosting Philadelphia Union on Wednesday. Questions surrounding Messi's availability for upcoming fixtures remain, though Hoyos kept the focus on honoring his player's privacy when pressed about the Argentine's anticipated participation.
"There are things that are deeply private. Just as each of you has your own private matters," Hoyos said. "If I were to come along and ask you a series of questions, you might say, 'This is private.'"
"That's why I mention silence; it's something many people don't value. They love to talk and offer opinions. But for me personally, it's about truly respecting those boundaries. He is simply someone facing challenges, which is only natural, and we respect that deeply."
Hoyos also spoke to Messi's dedication to Inter Miami even amid such trying circumstances: "There are no words. I can't find a label for his worth as a person. We aren't talking about his value as a player, but his worth as a wonderful human being with a huge heart. Sometimes, words just aren't enough."
Ángel Di María Sends His Public Support to Messi
Throughout the past week, players, clubs and supporters from around the world have rallied behind Messi. The star's childhood club Newell's Old Boys were among the first to show solidarity, with millions soon joining in, including Cristiano Ronaldo, David Beckham and now Ángel Di María.
The 2022 World Cup champion, who served as Messi's long-time teammate on the Argentine national squad, addressed the heartbreaking situation following the first leg of the CONMEBOL Libertadores Cup round of 16 clash between Rosario Central and Corinthians.
"I sent [Messi] messages these past few days, but he didn't reply, and that's perfectly normal," Di María revealed, via MARCA. "We wanted to be there for him and support him, but I understand and deeply respect that this is a very private family moment, in which one needs to retreat inward and process things calmly."
"I want him to know publicly that we support him with all our hearts during this very difficult time. Life unfortunately deals these blows, and I only wish that he and his family have the strength to move forward."