Jorge Messi dies aged 68 following long illness

Jorge Messi, the father of football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a long illness. His family confirmed the death to the Reuters news agency, stating that he passed away on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina.

According to the family, Jorge spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home. He was accompanied during this period by his wife, Celia, and their children, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.

Jorge Messi served as a crucial pillar of support for his son throughout his career, beginning with Lionel’s early years at Barcelona. For several years, he acted as his son’s representative, managing aspects of his professional life. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner previously noted the importance of his father’s guidance, stating he always sought his dad’s approval after matches.

Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, where he returned to action a week ago. The family had previously issued a statement regarding Jorge’s health situation, confirming he was undergoing medical treatment.

Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s childhood club, issued a tribute statement highlighting Jorge’s constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership. The club noted that these qualities were essential in backing every step of Lionel’s career.

During the recent World Cup, Lionel Messi experienced mixed emotions, including breaking down in tears after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria. He later attributed the reaction to difficult days unrelated to football, underscoring the personal challenges the family faced during that period.