Spanish Soccer Legend's Message? Let Kids Be Kids

Successful as both a player and a coach in international soccer, there’s no questioning the qualifications of Luis Enrique. Today the manager of top side Paris St. Germain of France’s Ligue 1, Enrique’s resume on and off the pitch is impeccable.

The Spaniard was a versatile player, capable of succeeding in either midfield or as an attacker. At club level, he was a star for both of Spain’s legendary clubs, Real Madrid and Barcelona from 1991-2004, playing in more than 500 matches. 

On the international stage, Luis Enrique represented Spain in the 1994, 1998 and 2002 FIFA World Cups, as well as the 1996 UEFA Euro, scoring 12 goals while earning 62 caps. He would later manage his country to the semifinals of Euro 2020 and to second place in the 2020-21 Nations League. Luis Enrique also coached Spain at the 2002 FIFA World Cup.

For all the time he has spent in soccer and all the success he’s enjoyed, Luis Enrique’s message to parents hoping that their child will be the next Lionel Messi or Christine Sinclair is simple and straightforward. First and foremost, your responsibility as a parent is to let your children be kids, living a childhood of curiosity and discovery while experiencing several different options to find their true passion.

“Let your child enjoy themselves,” Luis Enrique said. “Only 1% or less of Spanish children will arrive to play professionally, so your child’s objective and yours as a parent is that your child is happy and that they develop as a person.”