Messi regrets not learning English earlier

Jakarta (ANTARA) - Football superstar Lionel Messi has admitted that he regrets not seriously learning English when he was younger, as it has impacted his daily life, especially in building relationships with many people.

“I regret many things. One of them is not learning English when I was young. I had time to at least learn English and I didn’t do it,” said the Inter Miami player in an interview with the Mexican podcast, Miro de Atras on Wednesday.

The Argentine star admitted that he used to feel awkward when he was with great people, but could not fully participate in the conversation.

“When I could speak and chat with them, I felt half stupid,” he said.

He emphasised the importance of education from an early age and now encourages his children to take advantage of the opportunity to learn.

“I always tell my children to take advantage of it. They have a different situation from what I experienced, even though I never lacked anything,” said the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner.

“My last year of school in Argentina was a disaster. I knew that I was going to go to Barcelona,” he revealed.

In Spain, Messi completed his secondary education with other young players at the La Masia academy.

Although he feels regret, Messi affirmed that football has given him many life lessons.

“Football teaches many things, provides many values. Football creates lifelong bonds. You get to know different places,” he concluded.