Olimpia Coach Eduardo Espinel: ‘Let Messi Play and Enjoy the Show’

TEGUCIGALPA, Honduras — Olimpia coach Eduardo Espinel called for Lionel Messi to be allowed to showcase his talents during the upcoming friendly match against Inter Miami, emphasizing the importance of enjoying the Argentine star’s presence on the field.

Espinell, who was announced as Olimpia’s new coach on Dec. 26, expressed his thoughts during an interview with ESPN. “I believe Messi should be allowed to play in a friendly match so we can all enjoy him,” Espinel said Friday. “We won’t miss the opportunity to watch him live, and to enjoy him, we need to let him play smartly and know where to position him, not just anywhere.”

Espinell also acknowledged the star-studded lineup of Inter Miami, which includes Messi, Luis Suárez, and Sergio Busquets. “(Inter Miami) has Messi, Suárez, Busquets, and many young players to consider. But the number one player is…,” Espinel said, leaving a pause for emphasis.

The Uruguayan coach, who previously won two league titles with Plaza Colonia in the Uruguayan Premier Division, added: “My thought is that we should try to enjoy Messi and let him take the ball and play.”

Espinell, 52, leads a squad that includes two Uruguayan players: Emanuel Hernández and Marcos Montiel. The friendly match is set to take place Saturday, with fans eagerly anticipating the opportunity to see Messi in action.