The Digest:
Lionel Messi has admitted his biggest career regret is not learning English, branding himself an "idiot" for missing the opportunity. Speaking on the 'Miro de Atrás' podcast with former Argentina teammate Nahuel Guzmán, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner confessed: "I had time to have studied English and I didn't do it, I regret it a lot because then you live situations of being with incredible personalities where you want to talk and you feel kind of ignorant." The 38-year-old Inter Miami star said he urges his children to seize educational opportunities he overlooked. Messi also reflected on Argentina's 2022 World Cup triumph, revealing intense fear during the group match against Mexico after the shock loss to Saudi Arabia: "If we didn't win that match against Mexico, we were practically out. We went into that game scared." He has not officially confirmed participation in the 2026 World Cup but is widely expected to lead Argentina's title defence.
Key Points:
- Messi's candid admission humanises the football icon beyond his sporting achievements.
- It highlights the importance of education alongside athletic success.
- Fans gain relatable insight, while Messi encourages younger generations.
- This signals that even the greatest have regrets about missed opportunities.
- The timing, before potential final World Cup, adds reflective tone.
Sources: Pulse Sports, Miro de Atrás Podcast
