Lionel Messi is mourning the loss of his father.
Jorge Messi died Friday night at age 68 in a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina, following a long illness, the family confirmed.
For his final months, Jorge split time between the clinic in Rosario and his home. He was surrounded by his wife Celia and their children Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, according to the family statement.
The 39-year-old Inter Miami forward had spent time with his dad after the World Cup in North America before returning to club duty. He was back in action for Inter Miami just a week ago.
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Jorge was more than family. He was Lionel’s first manager, his constant presence, and for years his official representative. From the early days at Barcelona to world stardom, he was in the stands and behind the scenes.
“I always needed my dad’s approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I’d ask him what he thought of how I played,” Messi once said.
During the World Cup, Messi showed how much that bond mattered. After scoring a hat trick in the opener against Algeria and breaking down in tears celebrating his first goal, he spoke about playing with mixed emotions.
Tributes are already pouring in for the man who helped shape a legend.
