New Inter Miami coach Cristian 'Kily' González said the club considers Lionel Messi's opinions when making sporting decisions, insisting one should always listen to players of that level.

"Of course [Messi helps make decisions], in the sense that when you have a player of that class, one that has been lots of great players, you listen," González said at a news conference on Friday. "You have to listen. ... The opinions of players of this caliber and here I'm referring to Leo are fundamental to the club."

Inter Miami has lifted the 2023 Leagues Cup trophy, the 2024 Supporters' Shield and 2025 MLS Cup since Messi joined the club in the summer of 2023. The Inter Miami captain also inspired the club to break the Major League Soccer record for most points in a single season in 2024.

González agreed to become Inter Miami coach on Aug. 27, but didn't formally take over until receiving his work permits on Sept. 15. He debuted as head coach in the Campeones Cup against Cruz Azul, leading Inter Miami to the 2-0 victory to lift his first trophy in charge.

"Leo [Messi] told me I was going to become a champion, and he made it happen," González said after Wednesday's triumph.

Inter Miami now prepares to face San Diego FC on Sunday in MLS regular season action. The team sits in second place on the Eastern Conference table with 45 points in 25 games.