Messi plays for Inter Miami after father's death

Lionel Messi made a substitute appearance for Inter Miami on Wednesday following the death of his father Jorge, who passed away at the age of 68 last week. The 39-year-old Argentina forward hinted at the possibility of retiring from football after his emotional social media post. Messi attended his father's private funeral in Argentina on Sunday before returning to the United States for the game in Miami.

He came on at half-time during Inter Miami's 3-2 defeat by Leon in the Leagues Cup final group match, receiving loud cheers from the crowd. This is the first time Miami has been eliminated in the early stages of the competition since Messi joined the team in 2023 and they won the trophy. Messi's father had been his agent since the age of 14, witnessing his rise to become one of the world's best players, including leading Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022.

Jorge's health had been deteriorating, and Messi mentioned that his father encouraged him to play in one last World Cup despite his condition. Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright praised Messi's return, calling it incredibly supportive of their captain. The team members expressed their admiration for Messi's dedication. Leon's coach, Javier Gandolfi, acknowledged Messi's humanity, highlighting his unique nature and demonstrating his resilience once again.