“Yes, I came across the story on Facebook, and honestly, it didn’t surprise me one bit — that’s just Leo being Leo. People often forget that behind all the Ballon d’Ors, goals, and global fame, Messi is one of the most down-to-earth and respectful human beings in football.
He doesn’t get caught up in rivalry or drama. He’s purely focused on doing what he loves: playing football at the highest level and doing it with integrity. He’s never about hate or division.
So I called him to ask about the story, and he laughed and told me exactly what happened. He said, ‘I was having lunch at a restaurant, just a normal day, and I noticed this young boy looking at me repeatedly. He looked nervous, like he wanted to say something but didn’t know how. So I smiled at him and said, “Hey, do you want to come over and take a picture?” The boy came closer and said yes — but then hesitated and told me, “I’m wearing a Real Madrid shirt, so I didn’t know if I should ask.”’
Messi said he looked at the boy, smiled, and replied, ‘So what? What’s the problem with that?’ The boy lit up, they took a photo together, and then he went on his way.
Then Messi told me something that I think everyone needs to hear. He said, ‘The media tries so hard to stir up hatred between clubs and players. They push this idea that we’re enemies, just to get fans to become overly obsessed and hostile. But that’s not who we are. As players, we need to send a better message — that we respect each other, regardless of team colors. Our job is to show the world that football can be competitive and beautiful without turning toxic.’
That’s the side of Messi many don’t see — the kind, thoughtful man behind the legend. He genuinely believes in unity and sportsmanship. And he’s right — we can all love football deeply, support our clubs passionately, and still treat each other with respect.
You can be a diehard Barça fan, a Madridista, a supporter of any team — but you should always remain human first. Cheer, celebrate, debate… but never hate. That’s the message Messi lives by, and I hope more fans take that to heart.”
