Rosario mourns passing of Jorge Messi at 68
Jorge Messi, the father and agent of Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina. The family announced his death, stating he had been battling a long illness. He spent his final months moving between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.
The news of Jorge Messi‘s death has generated considerable discussion, particularly across social media. Argentine media outlets, including the newspaper “infobae” and the “Rosario3” network, were among the first to report his passing. Catalonia Radio also shared the news, citing the Argentine media reports. As of now, no official announcement has been made by major international newspapers, nor has there been confirmation from Lionel Messi‘s current club, Inter Miami.
The illness that ultimately led to Jorge Messi‘s death reportedly became public during the World Cup. During this period, Argentine news outlets began to reveal details of his health struggles. The family later issued a statement confirming his “health situation” and that he was undergoing medical treatment.
During the World Cup, Lionel Messi experienced a difficult personal situation. Following Argentina‘s 3-0 victory over Algeria, where he shed tears after scoring his first goal in the team’s opening match, he later clarified that his emotional reaction was due to “something unrelated to football” after enduring “a few difficult, complicated days.” Speculation suggested that his emotional response to Argentina‘s last-16 victory over Egypt was partly linked to his father’s declining health.
Jorge Messi played a pivotal role in his son’s football career, providing continuous support from Lionel Messi‘s early years at Barcelona. He served as a crucial pillar and, for several years, acted as his representative. Lionel Messi once stated, “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.”
His involvement extended to guiding Lionel Messi‘s steps in football from a young age, and he was instrumental in finalising his son’s move to Barcelona in 2000 when Lionel was just 13 years old. After becoming a players’ agent, Jorge Messi dedicated himself entirely to his son’s career, having recognised his significant potential early on.
Newell’s Old Boys, a club with strong ties to the Messi family, announced Jorge Messi‘s death through a social media post. The club’s message 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 post also mentioned that he had been receiving treatment for an unspecified illness in recent months.
The Argentinian FA also released a statement expressing its condolences to the family. Their message conveyed solidarity during this challenging period, stating, “From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm, and affectionate embrace. Strength to you all.”
Lionel Messi had spent time with his father after the World Cup before returning to action with his club, Inter Miami, a week ago. Inter Miami is scheduled to play Monterrey on Saturday at home in the 2026 Leagues Cup, though the MLS club has not yet announced whether Lionel Messi will participate in the match.
The passing of Jorge Messi marks the end of an era for the Messi family and the football community, particularly in Rosario, where he spent his final days.
Source: theguardian.com
Ngozi Adeyemi 