Messi Questions Future After Father’s Death

Lionel Messi posted a heartfelt tribute to his father, Jorge, who died last week, and said he now has “serious doubts” about his footballing future. In a short video on Instagram, the 39‑year‑old showed a photo of his dad and added, “I don’t know what comes next.” The message was posted on Tuesday, the day after Jorge’s funeral in Rosario, Argentina.

Messi’s uncertainty comes at a time when his career is already at a crossroads. He signed with Paris Saint‑Germain in 2021 on a two‑year deal that runs to 2026, but he has not played a full season since then due to a series of knee injuries. In his 1,000th club appearance, he scored a goal but then left the field with a painful sprain. He has 12 major tournaments under his belt, including a World Cup win in 2022, and he is the all‑time top scorer for both club and country. At 39, he is the oldest player still competing at the highest level, and his club and national team have been looking for a clear plan for his next steps.

The Argentine media and fans reacted quickly. A column in La Nación called the post “a sign of a man at a turning point.” PSG’s sporting director, Jean-Michel Aulas, said the club is ready to “support Messi in whatever decision he makes.” Meanwhile, Messi’s agent, Jorge Pons, hinted that a move to MLS or a return to Argentina might be on the table, but the player himself said he wants to finish the 2026 World Cup in Qatar before making a final decision. Argentine coach Lionel Scaloni said the national side will continue to welcome Messi “as long as he is able to contribute.”

What happens next will be decided in the coming weeks. Messi is scheduled to travel to the Copa America in late June, where he will play a few matches for Argentina. He is expected to meet with PSG’s management and his agent after the tournament to discuss his contract and possible retirement. The football world will be watching closely, as the departure of the sport’s most celebrated figure would mark the end of an era.