Inter Miami talisman Lionel Messi has provided new insight into his formative years at Barcelona, confirming that he dismissed formal overtures to represent the Spanish national team. In a candid appearance on the Miro de Atrás podcast—hosted by former international teammate Nahuel Guzmán—the 38-year-old icon detailed how Spanish federation officials attempted to integrate him into their youth setups during his rise through La Masia. While Messi had spent his entire adolescence in Catalonia, he maintained that his professional identity remained firmly rooted in his birth nation.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner explained that while the suggestion of playing for La Roja was not entirely unexpected given his residency in Spain, the emotional pull of the Albiceleste made the decision effortless. Messi moved from Rosario to Barcelona as a young boy, a transition that often leads dual-nationality prospects to choose their adopted home. However, the legendary forward insisted that his primary ambition was always to emulate his idols by wearing the iconic blue and white stripes of Argentina.
“There was a moment when something was mentioned from Spain,” he said. “I’d been in Barcelona since I was very young, so it wasn’t strange. But my desire was always to play for Argentina.”
The revelation comes as Messi continues his career in Major League Soccer while leading Argentina’s defense of their world title heading into the 2026 World Cup. Reflecting on his journey, the Inter Miami captain noted that his decision has been validated by a historic international career that culminated in the 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph in Qatar. Beyond his national team choice, the podcast interview also touched on personal growth, with Messi admitting a modern-day regret over not mastering the English language during his younger years despite having the opportunity.
For football historians, the prospect of Messi joining Spain’s “Golden Generation”—which included the likes of Xavi, Iniesta, and David Villa—remains one of the sport’s greatest “what-if” scenarios. Yet, as Messi explained to his listeners, his path was never a matter of tactical advantage or trophy probability, but rather a deeply personal commitment to his heritage. This unwavering loyalty has cemented his status as a national hero in Argentina, far beyond his statistical achievements on the pitch.
About the Author
