Jorge Messi, Father and Agent of Lionel Messi, Dies Aged 68

Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of football superstar Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness, the Messi family has confirmed. Jorge passed away in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, where he had been receiving medical treatment in recent months.

Jorge Messi was a pivotal figure in Lionel Messi’s life and career, managing his contracts and guiding his professional journey from his early days at Barcelona to his current role at Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. His influence extended beyond the typical agent role, as he also provided personal support and counsel throughout Lionel’s rise to global football stardom.

During his illness, Jorge alternated between hospital care and time at home in Rosario, supported by his wife Celia and their children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol. Following the 2026 World Cup, Lionel Messi spent valuable time with his father before returning to club duties in the United States. He made his return to action for Inter Miami just a week ago, showing his dedication to the team despite the difficult personal circumstances.

Inter Miami is scheduled to host Monterrey in the 2026 Leagues Cup on Saturday night. The club has not yet confirmed whether Lionel Messi will participate in the upcoming fixture. This moment presents a significant emotional and professional challenge for both the player and the club as they navigate the loss of a key figure in Messi’s life.

The passing of Jorge Messi marks a profound moment not only for Lionel and his family but also for the football community that has followed his extraordinary career. Jorge’s dual role as father and agent was instrumental in managing the complexities of Lionel’s career, helping to secure his success on and off the pitch. His guidance was a constant presence behind many of Lionel’s career decisions and achievements.

Beyond the immediate impact on Lionel Messi and Inter Miami, this news resonates within the wider football world. It highlights the often unseen role family members play in the careers of elite athletes, balancing personal support with professional management. The coming weeks will be closely watched by fans and analysts alike to see how Messi and his club respond to this loss, both on the field and in their preparations for upcoming competitions.

As Inter Miami prepares for the Leagues Cup fixture, the team and supporters face the challenge of maintaining focus and momentum during this difficult period. The club’s response and Messi’s involvement in the match will be significant indicators of how they manage this moment of adversity.

For further information, the original report can be found on The Guardian.