Lionel Messi bids farewell to father who guided his glittering career

Buenos Aires, Argentina - Lionel Messi paid tribute to his late father Jorge Messi on Sunday, August 9th, 2020. Jorge, a former metalworker and mentor, passed away from cancer at the age of 68. The football legend was accompanied by his wife Antonela Roccuzzo and their children when they arrived at a private ceremony at the Perez cemetery, near Rosario, where Jorge was laid to rest.

Fans and teammates alike left messages of support and well wishes for the Messi family, with the gate adorned by a floral wreath and handwritten notes.

Messi's teammates, including Boca Juniors midfielder Leandro Paredes, expressed their admiration for Jorge. Paredes stated, "I need to speak with a few of my teammates to see if we go now or sometime tomorrow." Rodrigo de Paul, a close friend of Messi and Inter Miami teammate, also contributed to the tribute by removing his shirt to reveal Messi's number 10 jersey after scoring in a 2-1 defeat to Monterrey.

Fans, including 15-year-old Lucas Blanco, traveled over 700 kilometers to be present during the emotional event. Carlos and Ana, who traveled from Tres Arroyos, mentioned, "We wanted to stand by Leo during this time." The cause of death was not disclosed, but local media reported Jorge had been battling cancer.

Jorge Messi had been Messi's first coach and stayed in Spain to accompany his son as he developed from a young prodigy to one of the world's greatest footballers. He left his previous job, family, and children behind in Argentina to support Lionel. Messi expressed his gratitude for the support his teammates provided during this difficult time, stating, "They stood by me, as always."