Lionel Messi wants to ensure his children do not repeat his greatest ‘regret’

Lionel Messi says he regrets not studying more

Speaking on the Miro de Atras podcast, Messi said: “I regret not having studied more. I tell my children the importance of having a good education.”

Messi left formal education early to pursue his football career, moving from Argentina to Spain as a teenager to join Barcelona’s famed academy.

While that decision paved the way for global superstardom, it also meant sacrificing traditional schooling during formative years.

Now a father, Messi has emphasised balance, encouraging his children to value education alongside sport.

Lionel Messi also regrets not learning English earlier

Messi added, “I regret not having learned English as a child. I had the time to do so and didn’t. I had opportunities to talk to great people, but I didn’t know how to speak English, and you feel strange.”

The language barrier became more apparent as his career expanded internationally, particularly during media duties and global events where English often serves as a common language.

Although Messi has adapted throughout his career, he acknowledged that earlier preparation would have eased communication in key moments.

For a player who conquered nearly every footballing challenge, these reflections highlight a different side of success, one rooted in personal growth rather than trophies.