Lionel Messi regrets not learning English during his youth, calling it one of his personal shortcomings despite a career that has cemented him as one of football’s greatest figures. The Inter Miami CF forward spoke candidly about the impact this limitation has had on his personal and professional life during an appearance on the podcast Miro de Atrás.
“To not have learned English as a boy. I had the time to at least study it and I did not. I deeply regret it,” Messi said. The 2022 World Cup winner reflected on moments when his lack of fluency left him feeling constrained, particularly in interactions with influential global figures. “I experienced situations where I was with incredible personalities, able to talk and have a chat, and you feel half ignorant. I always thought, ‘What an idiot, how I wasted my time.’ When you are young, you do not realise it.”
Messi used his experience as a cautionary lesson for his children. He emphasized the importance of education and preparation, encouraging them to embrace opportunities that were not as easily accessible during his upbringing. “Today, that is what I tell my children, the importance of having a good education, studying and being prepared,” he explained. The Argentine icon highlighted that while he grew up without any material deprivation, the circumstances of his childhood required learning through football rather than formal education.
Joining Inter Miami in 2023 after a two-year stint with Paris Saint-Germain F.C., Messi underscored how football itself became a comprehensive teacher. “I was able to do everything and reach the top in football, but along the way there are many experiences and lessons learned,” he noted. He reflected on the broader values instilled by the sport. “It is true that football is a way of life. It teaches you a lot, gives you strong values, creates lifelong bonds, and allows you to discover new places.”
Messi’s candid reflection highlights the intersection of professional success and personal growth. Even at the pinnacle of his career, he acknowledges areas where he could have prepared differently, demonstrating a rare vulnerability for a figure of his stature. It also underscores the wider lesson that education, preparation, and self-awareness are essential complements to talent, even in fields where skill and instinct dominate.
Through his comments, Messi presents a portrait of achievement tempered by humility. His story illustrates that success is multidimensional, shaped not only by accolades and trophies but also by the lessons learned along the way. For fans and aspiring athletes, his advice is clear: cultivate opportunities, embrace education, and never underestimate the power of preparation.
