Jorge Messi, 68, dies; Lionel Messi confirms

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68, the legendary footballer confirmed on Saturday through his childhood club Newell’s Old Boys. The announcement did not specify the cause of death but described Jorge as “the constant companion and behind-the-scenes leader” who shaped every step of his son’s career. Lionel Messi, widely regarded as one of the greatest players in history, posted a tribute on social media, calling his father “my greatest friend and supporter.” The news has sent shockwaves through the football world, with tributes pouring in from clubs, legends, and fans worldwide.

Jorge Messi was more than just a father to his son—he was his agent, advisor, and emotional anchor from the earliest days in Rosario, Argentina. Born in 1955, Jorge worked multiple jobs to support his son’s dream of becoming a professional footballer, often driving him to training sessions in their battered old car. He managed Messi’s early career at Newell’s Old Boys before securing his move to Barcelona at age 13. Even after Lionel’s rise to global stardom, Jorge remained a central figure in his life, traveling with him to every club and national team camp. Their relationship became a defining story in football, a rare blend of family loyalty and sporting partnership that few have matched.

Football’s governing bodies and clubs quickly expressed their condolences. Barcelona, where Messi spent 17 years, lowered flags to half-mast and held a moment of silence before their match on Sunday. Argentina’s Football Association released a statement calling Jorge “a pillar of strength” behind his son’s historic 2022 World Cup victory. Former teammates like Luis Suárez and Sergio Agüero shared personal memories, with Agüero writing, “He was always there, in the good times and the tough ones.” Messi is expected to address the media in the coming days, though no date has been confirmed. His absence from the pitch for Barcelona’s upcoming fixtures has already raised questions about whether he will play in the next match.

The loss comes at a pivotal time for Messi, who is currently playing in the MLS with Inter Miami and preparing for Argentina’s Copa América campaign in the U.S. this summer. His emotional state remains unclear, but the outpouring of support suggests football will rally around him. The timing also brings back memories of 2022, when Jorge was present for Messi’s World Cup triumph in Qatar—the peak of a career built on their unbreakable bond. His death marks the end of an era not just in Messi’s life, but in the story of modern football itself.