Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and longtime agent, has died at the age of 68 following an extended illness, his family confirmed. He passed away at a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina. During his final months, Jorge divided his time between the clinic and his home, where he was supported by his wife, Celia, and their children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
Lionel Messi stayed with his father after the World Cup before returning to Inter Miami, where he resumed playing a week ago. The club are scheduled to host Monterrey in the 2026 Leagues Cup on Saturday, although they have not confirmed whether Messi will take part.
Newell’s Old Boys confirmed Jorge’s death in a social media statement, explaining that he had recently received treatment for an undisclosed condition. The club called him a central figure who used determination, foresight and care to guide the career of one of football’s greatest players alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. Argentina’s football association also offered its condolences, expressing support for the entire family and wishing them strength during this painful period.
During the World Cup, Messi became emotional after scoring in Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria. He later said he had been dealing with a challenging personal matter that was not connected to football and described the preceding days as particularly difficult.
His emotional response following Argentina’s last-16 win over Egypt prompted speculation that his father’s declining health may have contributed to it. Several days later, the family released an update confirming that Jorge was receiving medical care.
Jorge remained closely involved throughout his son’s career, from Lionel’s early period at Barcelona onward. He provided essential guidance and represented him for many years. Lionel once explained that he had always valued his father’s opinion, recalling how he would ask for Jorge’s assessment after every match when he was young.
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