Messi’s father Jorge dies aged 68 after illness

Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, has died at the age of 68 following a long illness. He had also been the Argentina forward’s agent since Lionel was 14.

Jorge passed away in a hospital in his hometown of Rosario, in the early hours of Saturday morning, according to the medical centre treating him. The hospital’s director said no further details on the cause of death would be released, out of respect for the family’s wishes.

Speculation over his health had grown during this summer’s World Cup, after Messi appeared visibly emotional following Argentina’s opening group match against Algeria. The family later issued a statement confirming Jorge was dealing with a health situation, saying he was under medical supervision and recovering well at the time.

Jorge was central to his son’s rise from Rosario to the top of world football. He was with Lionel in Qatar in 2022 as Argentina won a third World Cup, and stayed by his side through eight Ballon d’Or wins, four Champions League titles and ten La Liga crowns across 17 seasons at Barcelona’s first team.

The family relocated to Spain in February 2001, shortly after Barcelona signed Lionel at 13. His mother and three siblings later returned to Rosario, but Jorge remained with him throughout his early years in Barcelona.

Newell’s Old Boys, the club Jorge supported and where Lionel began his career at seven, paid tribute on social media. “Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigour and affection the career of the greatest player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini,” the club said. “Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.”

Barcelona thanked Jorge “for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career.” The Argentine Football Association also sent condolences to “our captain and emblem, Lionel Messi,” and his family.

Read more – Messi’s Last Dance: One Goal From History, One Win From Immortality

Also see – Messi: This Is His Dream — And It’s Still Running

Follow Footy Times on Social Media:

Facebook | Instagram | Twitter | YouTube