Inter Miami's veteran goalkeeper, Oscar Ustari, has been making headlines, not just for his shot-stopping abilities but also for his insightful comments on playing alongside Lionel Messi. Ustari, who joined Inter Miami in September 2024, credits Messi for creating an environment that simplifies the game for everyone on the team.
Ustari's journey to Inter Miami is a story of perseverance. After a horrific injury in 2018 that almost ended his career, he fought his way back to the top. He signed for Liverpool in Uruguay to regain his form before returning to Mexican football with CF Pachuca. His performances there led to Inter Miami signing him.
The reunion with Messi at Inter Miami was a significant moment for Ustari. The pair were teammates in Argentina's youth teams, winning the Under-20 World Cup in 2005 and an Olympic Gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Ustari has expressed his excitement at the opportunity to play with Messi again, noting that Messi's presence elevates the team's performance.
According to Ustari, Messi's influence extends beyond his individual brilliance. Messi encourages everyone to compete at a high level. This creates a positive and competitive atmosphere within the team, pushing players to improve and perform at their best.
Ustari's contribution to Inter Miami has been significant. He has featured in 20 of the team's 23 matches in 2025, recording six clean sheets. His performances have earned him MLS Team of the Matchday honors. Most recently, Ustari was named MVP in Inter Miami's Club World Cup opener against Al Ahly, where he made eight saves, including a penalty stop.
Inter Miami recognized Ustari's value by signing him to a contract extension through the 2026 MLS season in May 2025. This demonstrates the club's confidence in his abilities and his importance to the team's success.
Ustari's story is a testament to his resilience and dedication. His reunion with Messi at Inter Miami has not only brought two former teammates together but has also created a dynamic that benefits the entire team. As Ustari continues to shine in goal, his words about Messi's influence serve as a reminder of the impact a great leader can have on a team's performance and morale.
