Messi Regrets on Learning English Later Despite His Successful Career

Lionel Messi expresses his regret over not learning English during his childhood, noting that it hindered his ability to communicate with influential figures worldwide.

Lionel Messi has shared his feelings of regret regarding his childhood education, specifically lamenting the missed chance to learn English during his formative years.

The forward for Inter Miami CF and captain of the Argentina national football team expressed that the language barrier frequently made him feel unable to completely connect with the notable individuals he encountered throughout his career.

During an appearance on the Mexican podcast Miro de Atras, Messi shared his thoughts on the opportunity he missed to pursue education in his youth.

“I have many regrets,” Messi stated.

“I regret not having learned English as a boy.” I had the opportunity to study English, but I chose not to pursue it. I sincerely regret it.

“Surrounded by remarkable and extraordinary individuals, I engaged in conversations that left me feeling somewhat uninformed.”

“I often reflected: ‘What a fool I was, how I squandered my time.’”

The winner of the FIFA World Cup 2022 shared that the experience has shaped his approach to advising his children on the significance of education.

“In youth, it often goes unnoticed.” Today, I emphasize to my children the importance of obtaining a solid education, the value of studying, and the necessity of preparation,” he stated.

“I consistently encourage my children to make the most of it.” They find themselves in a different situation than the one I experienced, even though I never went without anything…

At the age of 13, Messi relocated from his hometown of Rosario to Spain to join FC Barcelona, where he honed his skills in the club’s prestigious academy.

Reflecting on his last year of education in Argentina prior to his move, Messi acknowledged that it had not been particularly fruitful.

“My final year of school in Argentina was a complete disaster,” he remarked.

“I was aware that I was departing [for Barcelona]. In Barcelona, I completed my high school alongside the other kids from La Masia, the youth academy.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner made his move to Inter Miami in 2023 following a two-year tenure at Paris Saint-Germain.

Even with his educational regrets, Messi expressed that football has offered him priceless life lessons.

“I accomplished everything and reached the pinnacle [in football], but throughout the journey, I encountered numerous experiences and valuable lessons,” he stated.

“Indeed, football embodies a lifestyle.” It imparts a wealth of knowledge and instills numerous values. It fosters enduring connections. One becomes familiar with locations.