Guillermo Barros Schelotto
May 4, 1973 — Ranchos, Argentina
Guillermo Barros Schelotto is an Argentine football manager and former forward whose playing career made him one of Boca Juniors' most beloved modern-era stars. Nicknamed "El Mellizo" (The Twin) because he played alongside his twin brother Gustavo, he later transitioned into coaching, leading clubs in Argentina, the United States, and beyond. Today, he continues his managerial career at Vélez Sarsfield.
Early Life and Rise Through Argentine Football
Born on May 4, 1973, in Argentina, Guillermo Barros Schelotto grew up alongside his twin brother Gustavo, with whom he would share a footballing bond throughout much of his career. Guillermo began his professional journey with Gimnasia y Esgrima La Plata, where he showcased the technical skill, work rate, and attacking instincts that would define his playing style. His early performances caught the attention of larger clubs, and he soon moved on to test himself at a higher level. A brief stint in Italian football with Genoa exposed him to European tactics and competition, sharpening his game before he returned to Argentina. It was this move back home, to Boca Juniors, that would ultimately define his legacy as a player. The nickname "El Mellizo," referring to his twin status, followed him throughout his career and became part of his footballing identity, distinguishing him fondly from his brother Gustavo, who also pursued a professional playing career.
A Boca Juniors Legend and MLS Champion
Guillermo Barros Schelotto became a central figure for Boca Juniors during one of the club's most successful eras, helping the team capture multiple Copa Libertadores titles and an Intercontinental Cup crown, cementing his status as a fan favorite in La Bombonera. His creativity, vision, and clutch performances in high-pressure continental and international matches made him one of the most respected attacking players of his generation in South American football. In 2007, he took his talents to Major League Soccer, joining the Columbus Crew, where he continued to shine on a new stage. His crowning achievement in MLS came in 2008, when he led the Crew to the MLS Cup title and was named MLS Cup MVP for his outstanding performance, a feat that endeared him to American soccer fans and elevated the league's profile. His time in Columbus remains one of the most celebrated individual seasons in MLS history.
Did You Know?
Guillermo Barros Schelotto's nickname, 'El Mellizo' (The Twin), comes from the fact that he had an identical twin brother, Gustavo Barros Schelotto, who was also a professional footballer and even played alongside him at times, creating one of football's more unique sibling stories.
Managerial Career and Lasting Legacy
After retiring as a player, Guillermo Barros Schelotto transitioned smoothly into coaching, taking charge of Boca Juniors from 2010 to 2013, where he delivered domestic championships and continued the club's winning tradition from the dugout. His success in Argentina led to an opportunity in Major League Soccer once again, this time as head coach of the LA Galaxy, bringing his tactical philosophy to one of MLS's flagship franchises. He later returned to Argentine football, eventually taking the reins at Vélez Sarsfield, where he currently serves as manager. Barros Schelotto's legacy spans two distinct eras of excellence — as a decorated player whose Boca Juniors tenure produced continental glory, and as a manager who has carried that winning mentality into leadership roles across multiple countries. His journey from La Plata's youth pitches to championship trophies on two continents reflects a career built on versatility, resilience, and an enduring passion for the game.