Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has expressed his regret about not dedicating himself more to his studies as a child, especially in learning English.
The Argentina captain and 2022 World Cup champion revealed that he often felt “half ignorant” when interacting with notable figures during his illustrious career due to language barriers.
“I regret many things,” said the 38-year-old Messi in a recent episode of the Mexican podcast ‘Miro de Atras.’
“I wish I had learned English as a child. I had the opportunity to study it, but I didn’t take that path. I deeply regret that.”
“There were many occasions where I found myself among incredible personalities, and I couldn’t hold a proper conversation. It made me feel quite ignorant.”
“I would often think, ‘What a waste of time that was.’ When you’re young, you don’t realize the importance of education. Now, I emphasize to my children the value of a good education and being prepared.”
“I always encourage them to seize the opportunities they have. Their circumstances are vastly different from what I experienced, although I never lacked anything.”
Messi moved to Barcelona at the age of 13 from Rosario, his hometown.
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“My final year of school in Argentina was a disaster,” he admitted. “I knew I was going to Barcelona. At Barcelona, I completed my high school education alongside my peers at La Masia.”
Since joining Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 after two years with Paris Saint-Germain, Messi has also highlighted the valuable life lessons his football journey has provided.
“I’ve done it all and reached the top in football, but the journey has been filled with many experiences and lessons,” said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner. “Football is more than a sport; it is a way of life. It instills numerous values and fosters lasting connections. It opens doors to countless places.”