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Lionel Messi makes a surprising confession: 'I’m very sensitive; I cry during movies'


The World Cup champion is sharing his most emotional side


Many players have felt inspired to move to the MLS thanks to Messi© Getty Images
Maria LoretoSenior Writer
JANUARY 8, 2026 5:29 PM EST

Lionel Messi is arguably the greatest soccer player in the world. Known for his intelligent approach on the soccer field, his masterful passes, and his uncanny ability to score goals, Messi is also known for his calm and composed attitude in his day-to-day life. Based in Miami with his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their three kids, the Messi family is known for their normalcy and their desire to lead private lives. 

Lionel Messi© Carmen Mandato - FIFA
Messi is one of the greatest soccer players of all time

In a new interview, Messi shared some details of his personality, likely ones that left many of his fans and followers by surprise. “I’m sensitive — I get emotional with movies,” he said in an interview with Nico Occhiato and Diego Leuco on Luzu TV. The comment was made after he was asked about the most recent thing that had made him cry. 

Messi made it clear that naming one specific reason wasn't easy. “I cry during movies sometimes. I don’t remember which one; I don’t even know when the last time was,” he said, smiling.

Antonela Roccuzzo wrote a very emotional and sweet message for Lionel Messi as he retires from Argentina's national team.© Shaun Botterill - FIFA
Messi has been married to Antonela Roccuzzo for years, with their partnership dating back to when they were kids

He explained that watching movies is an immersive experience for him. “I really live it,” he said, clarifying that his investment depended on "the moment and the movie.” This characteristic of Messi is something that his wife is aware of, with the two often watching movies together as another opportunity to bond.

“We watch a lot of movies based on true stories, and those tend to hit me harder,” he said.

A devoted family man

 Antonela Roccuzzo, his lifelong partner and the quiet force behind him, dedicated a simple but powerful Instagram message.© Getty Images
The pair share three young boys

Messi also used the opportunity of the interview to talk about his role as a husband and father. He revealed that while he may not be overly expressive, as a partner, he considers himself thoughtful, especially when it comes to showing affection. 

In the midst of demanding training schedules, professional commitments, and raising their kids, Messi and Roccuzzo, who are childhood sweethearts who met in Rosario, Argentina, prioritize small and meaningful gestures when it comes to their dynamic. 

Roccuzzo has long been a supporter of Messi. Nowadays, she shares glimpses of her family's life, sharing updates, videos, and photos of special occasions like Christmas, New Year's celebrations, and family birthdays. The snapshots show a different side of the soccer icon, one who prioritizes his family, his traditions —  like his lifelong habit of drinking mate —  and his devotion to his children. 

A fan takes a selfie with Inter Miami's Argentine forward #10 Lionel Messi at the Salt Lake Stadium in Kolkata on December 13, 2025. Thousands of fans packed into a stadium in eastern India on December 13 to cheer on Lionel Messi as the football legend unveiled a 21-metre (70-foot) statue of himself. (Photo by Dibyangshu SARKAR / AFP via Getty Images) © AFP via Getty Images
The interview shows a very human side of Messi