Ustari reveals Messi's emotional reaction to retirement question

Oscar Ustari, former teammate and close friend of Lionel Messi, disclosed a private conversation about retirement that took place about a year ago in the Inter Miami locker room. Messi admitted he avoids thinking about the end of his career, telling Ustari: 'No quiero ni pensar en eso' Source: lavozar, infobae.

The conversation

According to Ustari, Messi asked him about his post-football plans. Ustari, who has studied to become a sports director and coach, then turned the question back. Messi's response was a clear avoidance of the topic. The exchange moved both men close to tears.

Emotional reaction

Ustari told Messi he would cry twice for football: when he himself retires and when he no longer sees Messi on the pitch. 'Y se puso colorado Leo. Ya nos estábamos por poner a llorar los dos ahí' Source: infobae. The moment highlights the deep emotional bond they share. Messi continues to play at a high level, scoring 5 goals in the 2026 World Cup, with Argentina already qualified for the round of 32.