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

Jorge Messi, the father and agent of football icon Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness, according to an announcement from the Messi family. He passed away at a medical clinic in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, where he had been receiving treatment in recent months.

Jorge Messi played a crucial role in shaping the career of his son Lionel, managing his contracts and guiding his professional path from his early days at Barcelona to his current tenure with Inter Miami. Throughout his illness, Jorge alternated between the medical centre and his 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 resuming his club duties in the United States. He returned to action for Inter Miami just a week ago, demonstrating his commitment to the team despite the personal loss he is now facing. Inter Miami is set to host Monterrey on Saturday night in the 2026 Leagues Cup, although the club has not yet confirmed whether Messi will participate in the upcoming match.

The passing of Jorge Messi represents a significant moment for Lionel Messi and his family, highlighting the deep personal and professional bond they shared. Jorge’s dual role as father and agent was instrumental in navigating the complexities of Lionel’s career and ensuring his success on and off the pitch.

As Inter Miami prepares for the important Leagues Cup fixture, the team and fans alike will be closely watching to see how the squad copes with this news and whether Lionel Messi will feature in the game. The club now faces the challenge of maintaining focus and momentum during this difficult time.

For more details, visit the original report on The Guardian.