Messi Reveals Biggest Regret of His Career
Argentina captain Lionel Messi has revealed that his failure to learn English as a child remains one of his biggest regrets, admitting that the language barrier has limited his conversations with some prominent people he has met during his career.
The Inter Miami forward made the revelation during an appearance on the Mexican podcast Miró de Atrás, hosted by goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán.
Messi explained that although football brought him into contact with influential personalities around the world, his inability to speak English prevented him from communicating freely with some of them.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he had opportunities to learn the language while growing up but did not take advantage of them.
“I regret many things. Not having learned English as a boy. I had the time to have at least studied English and I didn’t do it. I deeply regret it,” he said.
The 39-year-old added that young people often fail to appreciate the importance of education until they become older, noting that he now encourages his children to take their studies seriously.
Messi said he regularly reminds his children to make the most of their educational opportunities and prepare themselves for the future.
The Argentine footballer began his professional career at Barcelona, where he developed into one of the most successful players in the sport’s history before spells at Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami.
Despite his numerous achievements, including eight Ballon d’Or awards and the 2022 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Messi’s comments highlight a personal lesson he wishes he had learnt earlier in life.
His admission has also renewed discussions about the importance of education and acquiring additional skills, even for people who achieve success in their chosen careers.
Messi remains one of football’s most decorated players, having won numerous domestic and international titles during his career.
