Inter Miami and Argentina superstar Lionel Messi has revealed he "deeply regrets" not prioritizing English studies during his childhood, admitting the missed opportunity left him feeling "half ignorant" in interactions with global figures despite his unparalleled success on the soccer field.

Lionel Messi's Argentina recently defeated Italy 3-0 in the Finalissima.
Lionel Messi

The 38-year-old forward shared his reflections in a revealing interview on the Mexican podcast "Miro de Atras," released in late February 2026. Speaking openly about his school days and personal shortcomings, Messi described his academic performance as a "disaster," particularly in his final year in Argentina before moving to Barcelona at age 13 to join La Masia's famed youth academy.

"I regret many things," Messi said. "To not have 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 elaborated on specific moments that underscored the impact of the language barrier. "I experienced situations where I was with incredible and spectacular personalities to be able to talk and have a chat and you feel half ignorant," he explained. "I always thought: 'What an idiot, how I wasted my time.' When you're young, you don't realise it."

Messi, who has relied on translators for most English-language interviews and media appearances throughout his career, highlighted how the oversight limited direct communication. The regret extends beyond personal frustration; he now uses the lesson to guide his own children, emphasizing the value of education and preparation.

"Today that's what I tell my children, [the importance of] having a good education, to study and be prepared," he added.

The comments, translated and widely shared across sports outlets including ESPN, Goal.com, USA Today and The Times of India, quickly went viral among fans and media. Many expressed surprise that even someone of Messi's stature — an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, World Cup champion and global icon — harbors such everyday regrets. Others praised his humility, noting that his candor humanizes a player often seen as almost superhuman on the pitch.

Messi's English proficiency has long been a topic of discussion. While he understands the language to some degree and occasionally responds in basic phrases, he has consistently preferred Spanish for interviews, press conferences and public statements. Translators have been a constant presence during his time at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and now Inter Miami in Major League Soccer.

His move to MLS in 2023 brought increased exposure to English-speaking markets, yet he has maintained his approach, often conducting post-match interviews in Spanish. The podcast appearance marks one of the most direct acknowledgments of the limitation.

The revelation comes amid a challenging start to the 2026 MLS season for Inter Miami. The team opened with a 3-0 loss to LAFC, though Messi's individual form remains a focal point as he balances club duties with potential international commitments for Argentina.

Beyond language, Messi reflected on broader regrets from his youth, including not taking school more seriously. He described arriving late to classes in Rosario and prioritizing football over academics, a path that ultimately led to extraordinary achievements but left gaps in other areas.

Fans on social media platforms reacted with empathy. Comments on Instagram and Reddit ranged from supportive messages — "You made the world learn Spanish" — to lighthearted encouragement that he could still learn now. Others pointed out the irony: Messi's talent has transcended language barriers, with his on-field genius requiring no translation.

The interview also highlights the unique pressures on young athletes who relocate for their careers. Messi's move to Spain at 13 disrupted normal schooling, and while Barcelona provided education support, his focus remained on soccer development. He has spoken before about the sacrifices involved, but this is the first time he has tied it explicitly to language acquisition.

As Messi enters the later stages of his career, such introspective moments offer fans rare insight into his mindset. He continues to inspire millions, not just through goals and trophies but through vulnerability about personal shortcomings.

The podcast episode has reignited discussions about education in youth sports, with some commentators urging academies to integrate language training more robustly for international talents. For Messi, the regret serves as a teaching tool for his family and a reminder that even legends have "what if" moments.

Inter Miami supporters hope the star's form rebounds quickly, but his words resonate far beyond the field — a poignant admission from one of soccer's greatest that success doesn't erase all missed opportunities.