Lionel Messi has voiced frustration over intense scrutiny of his social media activity, saying even minor online actions are now magnified into headlines.
In remarks shared on social media, the Argentina captain said simple decisions such as following or unfollowing accounts often attract outsized attention. “Every little thing becomes a big deal nowadays,” Messi said, adding that he sometimes avoids unfollowing people to prevent unnecessary speculation.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner said he tries to be more cautious online, acknowledging that constantly worrying about public reaction would be overwhelming. “You can’t live thinking about every tiny thing you do,” he noted.
Messi stressed that he prefers to make the news for his performances on the pitch rather than off-field commentary. “I don’t like appearing in the news or being talked about if it’s not for football,” he said.
Messi also shared lighter personal insights, admitting he isn’t much of a dancer unless he has had a drink. “I like wine. Wine and Sprite, so that it hits fast,” he said, explaining his preference.
Lionel Messi also admitted he struggles with speaking in languages other than Spanish on camera.
He recounted a commercial shoot in China where he initially refused to deliver his message in Chinese, insisting on Spanish. “They said, ‘OK, do it in Spanish,’ but then insisted, ‘No, in Chinese,’” he explained. Ultimately, he complied but described the experience as embarrassing.
Messi added, “I feel strange speaking; I don’t like it and I prefer to do everything in Spanish,” highlighting his discomfort with performing in unfamiliar languages.
He stressed he wants media attention to focus on football, not off-field matters