Lionel Messi's father Jorge Messi dies after prolonged illness

ROSARIO, ARGENTINA: Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine soccer icon Lionel Messi, has died at 68 after a prolonged illness, according to multiple media reports.

Jorge reportedly died on Friday, August 7, at a clinic in Rosario, Argentina.

His death comes days after Lionel spoke about difficult family circumstances at the World Cup event without publicly disclosing his father’s condition or the nature of his illness.

Jorge Messi's crucial role in Lionel Messi's career

Jorge Messi was one of the most important people behind Lionel Messi’s career, particularly during the early years that eventually took the young Argentine from Rosario to Barcelona.

He was not only Messi's father but also his agent and, for decades, a trusted adviser as his son became one of the most successful players in soccer history.

The family’s move to Spain was a major turning point.

Jorge helped guide Lionel through the move to Barcelona, where his talent developed into a professional career that would eventually bring multiple domestic titles, Champions League trophies, and international success.

Despite Lionel’s enormous fame, Jorge remained a familiar presence around him and was involved in his professional affairs for decades.

His illness became more widely known after Lionel was asked about his emotional moments during the World Cup.

“The truth is that (this is) for the family more than anything,” Messi said while discussing the emotions surrounding his performances.

“Now we are in a difficult moment,” he added, while also thanking the people around him for their support.

Lionel has repeatedly credited his father for guidance and support through his career.

“My father would come back from a 12-hour shift and take me for training. Sacrifices that parents make for children are enormous,” Lionel had said during an interview.

Death after prolonged illness

Jorge’s condition had previously prompted false reports about his death, forcing the family to address the situation publicly.

At the time, the family said that he was under medical supervision and that his recovery was progressing favorably.

The family had slammed the insensitivity surrounding the false reports and called for privacy.

“In light of the reports, rumors, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some individuals have treated a strictly private family matter,” the Messi family said in a statement.

Jorge is survived by his wife, Celia Cuccittini, and their children Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.

No specific cause of death has been publicly disclosed so far.