Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and longtime agent, dies at 68

Jorge Messi, father of famed soccer player Lionel Messi and longtime agent, passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina. Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys confirmed his death through a social media post, revealing that he had been undergoing treatment for an unspecified illness in recent months. The club described Jorge as a pillar and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, supported Lionel’s career.

South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL, offered condolences with respect and affection for Lionel. Lionel Messi guided Argentina to a runner-up finish in the recent World Cup, scoring three goals in the team’s matches, with one instance of visible emotion after his opening goal. He later revealed that he had gone through difficult, complicated days.

His family released a statement expressing discomfort at the lack of sensitivity and respect with which the media had treated Lionel’s private and family matter. Jorge Messi had a background as a chemical technician, steelworker, and soccer player, playing as a midfielder in the youth ranks of Newell’s Old Boys before having to abandon the sport to fulfill his military service in Argentina.