Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has revealed his deep regret over neglecting his education as a youth, singling out his failure to learn English as a particular source of frustration throughout his decorated career.

The 38-year-old Argentina captain spoke candidly on Mexican podcast "Miro de Atras," describing moments of embarrassment when encountering prominent figures without the ability to converse freely.

"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," Messi said.

"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. I always thought: 'What an idiot, how I wasted my time.'"

Messi left his hometown of Rosario, Argentina at age 13 to join Barcelona's renowned La Masia academy. He acknowledged his final year of schooling before the move was unfocused.

"It was a disaster," he admitted. "I knew that I was leaving. At Barcelona, I finished my high school with the other children that went to La Masia."

The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner said the experience has shaped how he guides his own children. He stressed the value of education and preparation, noting his kids benefit from greater opportunities than he had growing up.

Messi joined Inter Miami in the summer of 2023 following two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain. He acknowledged football itself delivered its own education, calling it "a way of life" that builds values, relationships and perspective.