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Lionel Messi, the legendary footballer, has recently opened up about why he doesn't speak English at his new club, Inter Miami, reported by GOAL. Despite understanding the language, Messi admits he refrains from speaking it due to embarrassment.
Lionel Messi, an eight-time Ballon d'Or winner, moved to Inter Miami in 2023. This move came after a long and illustrious career at Barcelona and a short stint at Paris Saint-Germain. Messi's transition to the United States was highly anticipated, with fans eager to see how he would adapt to a new culture and language.
Messi's move to Inter Miami brought him to a region with a large Spanish-speaking community, which has helped him feel at home. This familiar environment has allowed Messi to continue communicating comfortably in Spanish, his native language. Despite this, Messi recently showcased his English skills in a promotional video for the latest “Bad Boys” film starring Will Smith, surprising many fans.
What Lionel Messi said
In an interview with Abitare, Messi revealed that his understanding of English is quite good, but he avoids speaking it out of embarrassment. He stated, “I understand everything, or almost everything, in English. But out of embarrassment, I don't speak – but I think I can actually.” This admission highlights Messi's humility and his discomfort with making public statements in a language he's not fully confident in.
Messi's Inter Miami teammate, Julian Gressel, has shared insights into Messi's English-speaking abilities. Gressel mentioned that Messi knows enough English to joke around on the pitch. He recounted an amusing incident: “Messi doesn't really ever speak to me much, and if he did, then it was a little bit in Spanish always. I understand most of it in Spanish. He came over to me and said something in English. That was the first time he'd spoken to me in English, during the game. He was covering his mouth, like he always does. Then after – this is the funny part about it – he goes, ‘English pretty good, no?'”
Life at Inter Miami
Messi's life in Florida is made easier by the significant Spanish-speaking contingent around him. Many of his teammates and staff at Inter Miami speak Spanish, which has helped Messi settle in quickly. This environment allows him to communicate effectively without the pressure of using English in everyday interactions.
Despite his reluctance to speak English publicly, Messi has shown he can use the language when necessary. His appearance in the promotional video for “Bad Boys” demonstrates his willingness to step out of his comfort zone, even if just for a short while. This flexibility is a testament to Messi's adaptability and his effort to engage with the broader audience in his new home.
Copa America and MLS Ambitions
Currently, Messi is with the Argentina national team, competing in the 2024 Copa America. He aims to defend the continental title successfully before returning to Inter Miami. Back in the MLS, Messi will continue to lead Inter Miami in their quest for MLS Cup glory.
As Messi continues his career in the United States, he has the opportunity to influence the growing soccer culture in the country. His presence alone has already elevated the profile of Major League Soccer, attracting new fans and increasing the league's global reach. Over time, Messi's impact off the field could be as significant as his contributions on it.
Lionel Messi's move to Inter Miami marks a new chapter in his illustrious career. While he remains hesitant to speak English publicly, his understanding of the language is solid. Surrounded by a supportive Spanish-speaking community, Messi continues to shine both on and off the field. As he competes in Copa America and prepares for more MLS action, fans around the world eagerly await the next steps in his incredible journey.
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