Lionel Messi: 'I was truly foolish because...'

The superstar of Inter Miami and the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi, recently attracted attention by admitting he regrets not learning English when he was younger.

At 38 years old, Messi spent most of his illustrious career at Barcelona before moving to play in the US for Inter Miami in MLS. Although he has lived and worked in an English-speaking environment for several years, the Argentine forward confessed that language barriers once made him feel "like someone semi-illiterate" in certain communication situations.

On the podcast “Miro de Atras,” Messi said: “I regret not learning English as a child. Back then, I had the time to study but didn’t take it. I was around incredible and brilliant people, had chances to talk, but I ended up feeling like a semi-illiterate person.”

He admitted to blaming himself: “I always thought: ‘I’m such a fool for wasting time.’ When you’re young, you don’t realize how important it is.” Now, Messi constantly emphasizes to his children the importance of education and building a solid foundation for their future.

Messi left Rosario for Barcelona at age 13 and completed his secondary education at La Masia academy. He described his final school year in Argentina as “a disaster” because he already knew he would move to Spain to play professionally.

Although not confident speaking English “due to shyness,” Messi said he “understands everything.” On the field, his feet still speak for him, helping Inter Miami win the Leagues Cup, Supporters' Shield, and MLS Cup, while also earning the MLS Golden Boot.

During his remarkable career, he played for Paris Saint-Germain and led Argentina to win the 2022 World Cup, Messi stated that football has taught him countless valuable life lessons, created strong bonds, and allowed him to explore many places around the world.

Last weekend, Inter Miami lost to Los Angeles FC in their MLS opener. Messi also drew attention when teammate Luis Suarez had to restrain him in the tunnel after the match ended. However, MLS officials confirmed he did not break any rules and will not face punishment.

Inter Miami will return to action on March 1st against Orlando City.