Lionel Messi's former Argentina teammate set to reunite with the superstar at Inter Miami in new role - Reports
Lionel Messi's former teammate Gonzalo Higuain is reportedly set to reunite with the legendary playmaker at Inter Miami. As per the club's youth coach Federico Higuain, who is also Gonzalo's brother, the former striker is prepared to join the Florida-based MLS giants.
Gonzalo Higuain notably spent the vast majority of his career in Europe, playing for Real Madrid, Napoli, Juventus, Milan, and Chelsea. He eventually decided to leave the continent entirely, opting for a switch to Inter Miami in the MLS in 2020. This yielded some fruit on a personal level, as the striker scored 29 goals and 11 assists in 70 appearances for the club across three years. He also retired at the club.
However, a return looks imminent for Higuain, with his brother Federico speaking with Ole during a practice session:
"The club is working on it. Wherever he (Gonzalo) is happy and feels good, he is welcome. It's something that still needs to be decided."
According to the club (via Ole), Gonzalo Higuain will take up the role of a Player Development Coach in the youth team. This means he will be working alongside his brother Federico. It will also be a reunion for him and Lionel Messi, who has yet to retire. They combined for 15 goals in 61 appearances together for Argentina.
When Lionel Messi revealed decision to retire at Inter Miami
Much like Gonzalo Higuain decided to hang up his boots after playing for Inter Miami, Lionel Messi has opted for a similar route. Earlier this year, in June, the legendary playmaker revealed that he will conclude his playing career with the Herons.
He notably joined the club in the summer of 2023, leaving Europe after a two-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). Despite rumors of a return to Barcelona, he moved across the pond to join the Miami giants and expects to retire at the club. He told ESPN Argentina:
"It's going to be my last club... I've done this all of my life; I love playing ball. I enjoy the practices and the day-to-day, the games. Yeah, there's a bit of fear that it's all ending. It's always there... But I try not to think about it. I try to enjoy it. I do that more now because I'm aware that there's not a lot of time left."
"So I have a good time with the club, being lucky having good teammates and friends at my side. I enjoy my time with the national team, where I also have good friends, too, and a lot. I enjoy those small details that I know I'll miss when I stop playing."
Lionel Messi has been in quality form with Inter Miami this season, scoring 14 goals and providing 10 assists in 15 MLS matches. He also notably lifted the Copa America with Argentina in the summer.