Lionel Messi's nephew reveals Inter Miami star is 'just another uncle'

Messi’s nephew reveals how much they suffer due to Inter Miami star’s fame.

Lionel Messi’s godson and nephew, Tomas, has offered a fascinating peek into the Inter Miami star’s personal life. Tomas tried to follow in his uncle’s footballing footsteps but failed, and he now works as a journalist.

He recently got down with his renowned uncle in Rosario, Argentina, where he operates his own streaming network. Tomas talked candidly about his relationship with the former FC Barcelona star in an interview with LA NACION.

He talked about his uncle’s retirement plans and Messi’s possible participation in the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico next year.

Tomas reveals Messi’s behind-the-scenes life

In addition, he disclosed the true nature of the World Cup champion away from the limelight and acknowledged that the star and his family may find it difficult to deal with invasive media attention.

Speaking about Messi’s family-focused nature, Tomas said: “Despite living abroad, he has always been very family-oriented, and we have a wonderful relationship. He makes sure to check in on you, we visit him whenever we can, and he also comes when he can, especially during the holidays and when the national team plays in Argentina.”

“On the other hand, we have also suffered a lot as a family, Tomas continued. But we are always there for each other. He relies on us and we help him… Leo is another member of the family, and we treat him as such. He is relaxed, he is just another uncle and not a public figure or the best footballer in the world.”

There has been much curiosity regarding Messi’s potential participation at the World Cup next year. But according to Tomas, Messi “doesn’t say anything” about it. His family wants the Miami star to continue playing, but Messi says he will “decide when the time comes.”

Messi, 38, recently played in what may have been his last home game for his nation. The game Argentina vs. Venezuela, a World Cup qualifying match, was played at River Plate’s Estadio Monumental stadium.

Tomas acknowledged that the Messi family was experiencing an emotional moment. “Everything that has happened in recent years has been pure joy,” he stated.

“We always support him. Now we are a little sad after the last official (home) match. It’s the final stretch, as everyone says, and we never want it to end, but the truth is that what he is experiencing is beautiful.”

Messi’s nephew also wanted to become a footballer

For a number of reasons, Tomas’ own football career never took off. The primary cause was injury, but Messi was always available to console his nephew.

Tomas further disclosed that wearing the Messi last name on his shirt frequently made him feel like he was carrying a heavy burden. However, he ultimately learned to deal with it.

He added: “At the time, my surname affected me. I felt it was a burden because it seemed like I had to be just like my uncle. It wasn’t easy. And when I started playing again, that weight didn’t influence me as much… I didn’t care what people thought or said.”

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