Jorge Messi, father of Lionel, dies aged 68

Jorge Messi, father of renowned soccer player Lionel Messi, passed away at the age of 68 on Friday night in a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, due to a prolonged illness, according to a statement from the family to Reuters. During his final months, Jorge alternated between a medical center in Rosario and his residence, supported by his wife Celia and their children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.

Lionel Messi visited his father post-World Cup before returning to Inter Miami, where he resumed his professional career a week later. Jorge played a pivotal role in Lionel's early career, starting from their time at Barcelona, often serving as his representative and providing crucial support. Lionel has always depended on his father's approval, recalling how he would ask for his dad's opinion after every match.

Following Lionel's hat-trick in the opening match of the World Cup against Algeria, he was seen breaking down in tears, although he later clarified that the tears stemmed from unrelated personal issues after facing a few challenging days. In a subsequent statement, the family disclosed Jorge's health condition, informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.