Messi questions career longevity following father’s death
The 39-year-old Argentine captain expressed serious reservations about continuing professional football after the passing of his father and former agent, who died last week at the age of 68.
Lionel Messi has publicly questioned the duration of his football career, citing the recent death of his father, Jorge Messi, as a pivotal moment in his decision-making process. The 39-year-old Inter Miami striker released an emotional tribute on Instagram following the passing of Jorge Messi, who served as his agent from the age of 14 until his death last week at the age of 68.
In the message, Messi stated he did not know how to carry on without his father’s support, adding that he had serious doubts about whether he would continue playing for much longer. He asked his late father, "Why couldn’t you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together?" while acknowledging that his father’s happiness had been watching him play.
The comments come shortly after Messi led Argentina to the 2026 World Cup Final, where the team suffered a 1-0 extra-time defeat to Spain. Messi recorded eight goals and four assists across eight matches in the tournament, becoming one of only two players to appear in six World Cups, alongside Cristiano Ronaldo.
Prior to the final, Argentina secured their place in the championship match with a 2-1 semi-final victory over England. Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and the 2022 World Cup champion, is currently in his third full-time season with Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, having scored 12 goals and provided seven assists in 15 matches during the 2026 MLS season.
Jorge Messi passed away in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, following a long illness. His role as Lionel’s agent spanned the entirety of his son’s professional life, making the loss particularly significant for the striker’s personal and professional trajectory.
Messi concluded his tribute by stating he would raise his children in the same manner his father had raised him, emphasizing the enduring influence of Jorge Messi on his family life. The Inter Miami club and the broader football community are now awaiting further clarity on Messi’s immediate schedule and long-term plans.
