Can you truly be just friends with an ex? Or will there always be some deeper emotional connection there?

My boyfriend and I of almost 2 years broke up a couple months ago. I was 23, he’s 21. These past 2 months have been really ugly and we’ve both said things to each other that we didn’t mean and that were really hurtful. Last night, he messaged me apologizing for the way he acted and that he wants to still be friends with me. The conversation went on forever and it was very natural and unforced! I’m just confused with my feelings, because I still really care about him but we both know it’s probably best for us not to be in a relationship.

Other thoughts? Experiences?