In 2023, Kiko Loureiro announced that he was extending his leave of absence from Megadeth , and since then, Teemu Mäntysaari has filled the role of guitarist.
In a recent interview with Guitar World , the Brazilian revealed that he considered Marty Friedman in his place: "Actually, I even mentioned to the [band's] management and Dave [Mustaine] that I thought bringing Marty Friedman back would be amazing."
“I have no idea if they’re talking about it or talking to him, but I said that,” he continues. “But again, I have no idea beyond that and I don’t want to complicate anything.”
Loureiro also praised Mäntysaari, describing him as an "incredible" musician.
Looking back on his time joining Megadeth, Loureiro spoke about the audience: “The fans never said anything bad about me or complained, which was amazing. But I'm a fan and I always understood that Marty was part of iconic albums like Rust in Peace and Countdown to Extinction .”
“I understood that Marty was the guy who helped create that sound and style, you know? From the moment I joined Megadeth, I knew that fans could show me love, but I would never win their hearts over Marty.”
Meeting
After more than two decades, Friedman played with Megadeth again on February 27, 2023, in Tokyo.
The guitarist participated in “Countdown To Extinction”, “Tornado Of Souls” and “Symphony Of Destruction”.
READ ALSO: Marty Friedman on Kiko Loureiro in Megadeth: “It was like watching someone hook up with your ex”