Jorge Messi’s Profound Influence on Lionel Messi’s Career

Jorge Messi, father of renowned soccer player Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. This news was confirmed by the Argentine Football Association (AFA). The Messi family had previously issued a statement on June 18, during the World Cup, indicating that Jorge was facing health challenges and was under medical care.

On the field, Lionel Messi expressed visible emotion after scoring a hat-trick for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Algeria, shortly after the family’s statement was released. He acknowledged that his reaction stemmed from experiencing ‘some difficult, complicated days’.

Jorge Messi played an essential role in Lionel’s career, serving as his agent and business manager. Despite various advisors departing from Messi’s team over time, Jorge and Lionel remained inseparable, acting in harmony. The AFA, led by its President Claudio Tapia, expressed grief, stating, ‘The Argentine Football Association, led by its President Claudio Tapia, mourns with sadness and deep sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our captain and icon, Lionel Messi.’ They also announced that all matches in Argentina over the weekend would observe a minute’s silence in Jorge’s honor. ‘We offer our heartfelt support to the whole family during this challenging time, sending them our warm and affectionate condolences.’

Messi’s former club, Barcelona, and rivals Real Madrid were among those extending tributes to Jorge. Jorge’s career included roles such as supervising a metal factory in Rosario and coaching at the Grandoli soccer club, where Lionel began his soccer journey before transitioning to Newell’s Old Boys, Rosario’s most prominent club.

At 13, Lionel needed costly treatment for a hormone condition affecting his growth, prompting Jorge and Lionel to seek opportunities in Spain. In September 2000, Lionel underwent a trial at Barcelona, resulting in a famous napkin contract in December. This agreement was facilitated by Barcelona director Charly Rexach in the presence of family advisors Josep Maria Minguella and Horacio Gaggioli. Lionel eventually joined Barcelona, debuting in the first team in 2004, establishing himself as a legendary player.

Due to financial challenges at Barcelona, Lionel later moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, spending two seasons before relocating to Inter Miami as club captain.