Lionel Messi’s father passes away at 68:Jorge Messi was dealing with health issues, Argentina footballer skipped MLS match in June

Argentina football icon Lionel Messi’s father and businessman, Jorge Messi, has died this Saturday in a hospital in Rosario at the age of 68, as reported by Argentinian media sources. The Rosario-based Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys announced his death in a social media post that said he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness. The post described him as the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigour and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. The South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL, in a statement, also offered its condolences with respect and affection for Lionel. It is worth noting that Jorge had been struggling with health issues for some time. Lionel Messi had mentioned that his family was going through a difficult period, but he did not share specific details about his father’s condition. After scoring against Algeria in June, Messi became quite emotional. When the Inter Miami star was asked about his tears, he said, “Why was I crying? It had absolutely nothing to do with football. I have had a few difficult days.” Lionel Messi had an inseparable bond with his father Jorge Messi played a crucial role in Lionel Messi’s career. It can be understood by the fact that Messi would not have reached the pinnacle or bagged historic deals if his father had not been by his side since Day 1. When the footballer moved to Barcelona while still a child to join the blaugrana club, his father decided to accompany him during the first few months, while the rest of the family remained in Rosario. At a stage marked by uncertainty and major changes, Jorge became essential support for his son as he began to adapt to his new life. As Lionel grew up and his career began to take on new dimensions, Jorge’s role also evolved. His work became largely linked to managing the player’s professional affairs, acting as one of his main representatives and taking part in important decisions over the years. He might have maintained a low profile with the media, but he was a constant in his son’s personal and professional life. Messi’s family informed in June that Jorge Messi was dealing with health issues After Messi’s comment regarding his difficult days, hypermedia speculation prompted the Messi family to release a statement requesting privacy. The statement read, “The Messi family wishes to inform you that Jorge Messi is currently dealing with health problems. He is under medical supervision and is recovering well.” “Given the reports, rumours, and speculation that have been circulating in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern about the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated a strictly private family matter.” It further concluded with, “We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern we have received. We ask that the privacy, confidentiality, and personal space of Jorge, and that of his entire family, be respected throughout this process.” Lionel Messi skipped the MLS All-Star Game likely because of his father Jorge’s health issues most probably impacted Lionel Messi’s schedule. The 39-year-old skipped the Major League Soccer (MLS) All-Star Game at the end of July. Moreover, reports were circulating that he travelled to be with his father. Messi returned to play for Inter Miami in an MLS match a few days later, but these events highlighted the personal challenges he faced off the field. ​