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Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez’s New Club Shocks with Bold Coach Pick

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Andy Hageman | Last updated Jun 9, 2025 12:14 PM ET

Lionel Messi and Luis Suárez, soccer icons and Inter Miami teammates, have ignited excitement by co-founding Deportivo LSM, a new club set to compete in Uruguay’s fourth division. Their audacious venture blends star power with grassroots passion. And with this daring coach pick, the team will likely have some bite from the get-go.

The duo announced Diego Aguirre, a seasoned Uruguayan tactician, as Deportivo LSM’s inaugural head coach per Sky Sports. Aguirre, known for his high-pressing style, previously managed clubs like Peñarol and Internacional, bringing a wealth of experience. His appointment signals ambition for the fledgling club.

Messi, 37, and Suárez, 38, remain under contract with Inter Miami through 2025, balancing their MLS commitments with this venture. Deportivo LSM, based in Uruguay, aims to nurture young talent alongside a professional squad. The club’s crest fuses their personal brands, a nod to their legacy.

Aguirre’s track record includes leading Peñarol to a Uruguayan championship, making him a calculated choice per UEFA. His aggressive tactics could elevate Deportivo LSM’s competitiveness, despite starting in the fourth tier. Fans are buzzing about the potential for rapid promotion.

The club’s formation stems from Suárez’s roots with Deportivo LS, founded in 2021, now rebranded as LSM with Messi’s backing. Their shared vision emphasizes youth development, aiming to unearth Uruguay’s next soccer gems. This move reflects their commitment to giving back.

Critics question whether Messi and Suárez’s star power overshadows the club’s modest beginnings. Yet, their involvement guarantees global attention, potentially attracting sponsors and talent. Deportivo LSM could redefine how celebrity-backed clubs operate.

Aguirre’s challenge is immense: building a cohesive team in a competitive division. His experience with youth academies at clubs like São Paulo aligns with LSM’s goals per Sky Sports. Success hinges on blending raw talent with disciplined tactics.

The soccer world watches eagerly as Deportivo LSM takes shape. Messi and Suárez’s gamble could inspire a new model for player-driven clubs. Their choice of Aguirre sets a bold tone for what’s to come.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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