Messi misses Miami defeat after death of father

Lionel Messi, captain of Inter Miami, was absent from the team's Leagues Cup match against Monterrey on Saturday due to the recent passing of his father, Jorge Messi. The 68-year-old Jorge, who served as his son's agent since the age of 14, passed away in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina. In response to the tragedy, Inter Miami observed a minute's silence before the match, with players wearing black armbands and Jorge's name displayed on the stadium's big screens.

The club expressed their condolences, stating, "Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family."

Messi's Argentina teammate, Rodrigo de Paul, celebrated his opening goal of the 2-1 defeat by removing his shirt to reveal a graphic of his father's likeness. Fans also paid their respects, holding up handmade signs and writing tributes on social media. Lionel's former club, Barcelona, paid tribute to Jorge by observing a moment of silence before their friendly match against Nottingham Forest in Italy. The club acknowledged Jorge's crucial role in recruiting Messi to the Catalan giants over two decades ago.

The Argentine Football Association expressed deep sorrow, standing in solidarity with the Messi family and extending their heartfelt condolences. Paris St-Germain, where Messi played from 2021 to 2023, also offered their support, wishing Leon and his family peace during this difficult time.