Messi unsure he will play 'much longer' after father's death
Lionel Messi says he is unsure how much longer he will continue playing football in an emotional tribute after his father's death.
Lionel Messi finds himself uncertain about the future of his football career following the passing of his father, Jorge, who was 68 when he died last week after battling a prolonged illness. Jorge had served as Messi's agent since he was 14 years old, witnessing his son's transformation into one of the sport's most accomplished players.
On social media, a visibly emotional Messi, now 39, expressed his grief, stating he doesn't know how to go on without his father, questioning how he will continue playing the sport he once loved. He reflected on their bond, lamenting that his father was with him right until the end, only for Jorge to not have the strength to hold on a bit longer for them to spend their remaining time together.
Messi, who led Argentina to victory in the 2022 World Cup and to the 2026 World Cup final, where they lost 1-0 to Spain, has since returned home to Rosario, Argentina, to be with his family following his father's death. A private funeral was held on Sunday at a cemetery on the outskirts of Rosario.
Written by urgent.news from BBC Sport Football's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
