Kily Gonzalez's tenure as Inter Miami coach began after he agreed to replace Guillermo Hoyos in late August. However, his official debut was delayed until mid-September due to a pending work permit. The Campeones Cup match on the evening of 16/9, also known as the North American Super Cup, marked his first game in charge. Lionel Messi ensured an unforgettable start, contributing one goal and one assist to secure a 2-0 victory over Mexican champions Cruz Azul.

"Messi told me he would make me a champion, and he delivered," coach Gonzalez stated. "I don't know how to express my feelings right now. It's a mix of joy, happiness, and many emotions all at once."

Coach Kily Gonzalez during the Campeones Cup match between Inter Miami and Cruz Azul on the evening of 16/9, at NU Stadium, in Miami, Florida, United States. *Photo: AP*

The Campeones Cup marks Lionel Messi's 4th title with Inter Miami, following the Leagues Cup 2023, Supporters' Shield 2024, and MLS Cup 2025. This victory elevates the 39-year-old forward's career trophy count to 48, comprising 35 with Barca, three with PSG, and six with the Argentina national teams. Dani Alves, Messi's former Barca teammate, remains second with 43 titles.

Last summer, Messi nearly added another major achievement with Argentina at the World Cup. At 39, the Inter Miami star continued to perform brilliantly, scoring 8 goals and providing 4 assists in 8 matches. This propelled Argentina to the World Cup final for the third time in the last four tournaments, including their 2022 championship. Messi also set a record as the player with the most assists in the tournament's history, with 12, and ranked second among top scorers with 21 goals.

Prior to winning the Campeones Cup, Messi was named among the 30 nominees for the 2026 Ballon d'Or by France Football magazine. Should he win, he would extend his record to 9 triumphs, while Cristiano Ronaldo holds the second-highest tally with 5 awards.

"The football world has no one like Messi," coach Gonzalez remarked. "I have no doubt that this year's Ballon d'Or should go to him. Considering his age, his World Cup performance, and what he embodies not just in football but also in life values, he fully deserves this award."

As a player, coach Gonzalez reached the Champions League final two times, won La Liga in 2002 with Valencia, and Serie A in 2006 with Inter Milan. The former winger also represented the Argentina national team from 1995 to 2005. In his coaching career, he has led three Argentine clubs: Rosario Central, Union, and Platense.

*Thanh Quy (according to Marca)*