Lionel Messi Reflects on Career Uncertainty After Father’s Passing

Lionel Messi has expressed doubts about continuing his football career following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. Jorge passed away on August 8 at the age of 68. Previously, the Messi family announced during the World Cup that Jorge was dealing with health issues and under close medical care.

After Argentina defeated Algeria in the group stage, Messi attributed his emotional response to scoring goals to the difficult and challenging days he had been experiencing. The 39-year-old shared a heartfelt statement on social media, mentioning that he is struggling to cope with his father’s passing. Jorge played a critical role in Messi’s life, serving as his agent and business manager.

“All I ever did was play football, and now I have a fair few doubts as to whether I’ll carry on doing it for much longer,” Messi said. “You were by my side from the start, we were so close to the end of my career. Why didn’t you hang on just that little bit longer so we could finish it together?”

Over the years, advisors and counselors have left Messi’s team, but the bond between father and son remained strong. Jorge was a significant influence, managing Lionel’s career while previously working as a supervisor in a metal factory in Rosario. He coached at the local Grandoli soccer club, where Lionel began his football journey.

Jorge accompanied Lionel to Spain at the age of 13 for a trial at Barcelona in September 2000. This led to Lionel joining the La Masia youth academy and embarking on a 21-year career at Barcelona, where he scored a record 672 goals in 778 appearances. Messi later joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and moved to Inter Miami in 2023.

Among those who paid tribute to Messi’s father was his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo. Ronaldo shared a message on Instagram expressing his condolences: “A huge hug to you and your loved ones during these difficult times, Leo. Stay strong.”

Messi’s full statement conveys his deep grief and longing for his father:

“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone. I can’t get my head round it — or rather, I don’t want to. It’s so hard for me to imagine that I won’t see you ever again, that we won’t talk anymore. I know you were suffering and that this is for the best, but you left us far too soon. We still had so much left to enjoy together.”

Messi shares that his father was adamant about him playing in the last World Cup, despite his illness. Jorge’s condition worsened before the tournament started, marking the first time he could not attend. Lionel reflects on the encouragement he received from his mother and the goal of reaching the final so his father could be proud.

Throughout his career, Messi awaited messages from Jorge after each match, emphasizing how his father’s absence highlighted the severity of the situation. Although Argentina did not win the title, Messi cherishes the memories of each match.

Messi recalls the lifelong support he received from his father, who ensured he never missed a training session or match. Despite being critical, Jorge was a constant source of guidance and friendship.

Messi vows to honor his father’s legacy by instilling the same values in his children. He expresses gratitude for all the moments they shared and wishes his father eternal peace.

“Rest in peace and look after us from up there, just as you did here. Thank you for everything.”

Jorge Messi’s influence on Lionel’s career was unparalleled, and his absence leaves a profound impact on the renowned footballer’s life.