Messi Reflects on Missed Education Opportunities

Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest icons, has been in love with the sport since childhood. From the earliest days, the young Argentine would immerse himself completely in football, dedicating every waking moment to mastering the game. That devotion has paid off in extraordinary fashion: from winning the FIFA World Cup to lifting virtually every major club trophy, Messi’s name sits effortlessly among the all-time greats.

At 38, it might seem that Messi’s life is free from regrets, at least on the pitch. Off it, however, the Argentine superstar has admitted to feeling inadequacies, particularly when it comes to education. Speaking to former Argentine goalkeeper Nahuel Guzmán on the Mexican podcast Miréo de Atrás, Messi candidly reflected on his schooling, expressing regret for not learning more as a child, especially in terms of the English language, which he now finds challenging.

Messi’s journey is well known. As a boy, he struggled with a hormonal growth condition that required medical attention. He joined Barcelona’s youth academy at an early age, committing himself fully to football with little time left for formal education. Years later, after triumphs with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and the Argentina national team, Messi has openly acknowledged the opportunities he missed academically. “I have regrets in many areas,” he said. “I tell my children that not pursuing a proper education, not learning English when I was young—these are things I wish I had done differently.”

He has described the discomfort of linguistic limitations, particularly in professional or high-profile settings: “There are times when you are with renowned people, having to speak or engage, and you feel ignorant. You think, ‘How foolish I was, how much time I wasted!’”

Messi now channels these lessons into guidance for his three children, encouraging them to seize every opportunity life provides. “I lacked nothing growing up; my father always gave his best. But my children have even more chances before them,” he said.

Messi’s international future remains uncertain. The 2026 World Cup, beginning 11 June across the United States, Mexico, and Canada, is still on his mind. While he has expressed a desire to play, he emphasises the importance of managing his fitness and pacing himself. Reflecting on Argentina’s 2022 World Cup campaign, Messi recalled the group stage: “If we hadn’t won against Mexico, we would have been effectively eliminated. We played with fear… Mexico has always been a team that tests us hard.”

Messi also imparts a broader life philosophy: “Life must be enjoyed, even when it is difficult. We do not all face the same circumstances; many contend with different and harsh realities. But enjoyment should never cease. Personally, I now cherish everything—the family, the children, daily life, small moments. Every day is a day to enjoy, because we do not know what tomorrow holds.”

Messi recently began the new MLS season with Inter Miami, though the team’s start was challenging. Last Sunday, they suffered a 3–0 defeat against Los Angeles FC, highlighting that even legends face setbacks.

Messi’s Career Highlights

Messi’s reflections serve as a reminder that even the most accomplished individuals face personal challenges. His story underscores the value of education, the importance of family, and the necessity of cherishing every moment.