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Inter Miami are reportedly set to appoint a new manager. The Herons are expected to bring in Kily Gonzalez, a former Argentina international who has previously coached three different clubs in the Argentine top division. He will take over from interim boss Guillermo Hoyos, who has held the role since MLS Cup-winning manager Javier Mascherano was dismissed shortly after the season began.

A surprise change for Hoyos

The decision comes as a surprise for the Herons, who had offered little sign that they were ready to move on from Hoyos. He shared a close bond with Messi, and the team’s results under him have been satisfactory, even if not flawless. Miami are second in the Eastern Conference and are still expected to challenge for the MLS Cup.

Gonzalez’s impending move to Miami was first reported by Cesar Luis Merlo.

Questions over managerial record

Even so, Gonzalez’s coaching CV is a mixed one. He has managed Argentine clubs Rosario Central, Union and Platense. The Rosario-born coach has an overall losing record, with a win percentage of 32.5, and he has never lifted a major trophy.

A connection with Messi

He does, however, have a link with Messi — something all of Miami’s previous managers have shared during the Argentine star’s time at the club. The pair played together for the Argentina national team in 2006, and Gonzalez welcomed Messi back after his triumph at the 2022 World Cup. Both are also from Rosario.

Miami seeking a lift

Replacing Hoyos may be unexpected, but Miami have found things difficult in recent weeks. They were knocked out of the Leagues Cup at the group stage, and their last MLS win came on July 25. Messi has scored in each of the club’s last two matches.