Jorge Messi’s Impact and Legacy

The Argentine Football Association has confirmed the passing of Jorge Messi, father of soccer icon Lionel Messi, at the age of 68. The Messi family had previously announced on June 18, during the World Cup, that Jorge was dealing with health issues and receiving close medical attention.

Lionel Messi appeared emotionally affected after scoring a hat-trick for Argentina in a 3-0 victory over Algeria, which occurred two days before the family statement. He explained post-match that his emotions were due to facing some challenging days.

Jorge Messi’s Role in Lionel’s Career

Jorge Messi played a crucial role in his son Lionel’s career by serving as his agent and business manager. Over the years, while several advisors and counselors left Messi’s team, often after disputes, the father-son team stayed united with a synchronized approach.

The Argentine Football Association, led by its President Claudio Tapia, mourns with sadness and deep sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi, father of our captain and icon, Lionel Messi.

The AFA announced a minute’s silence at all matches in Argentina over the weekend to honor Jorge. It also expressed support to Lionel and his family in this tough period.

Both Barcelona, Lionel’s former club, and their rivals Real Madrid, paid tribute to Jorge Messi on Saturday.

Jorge had been a supervisor at a metal factory in Rosario before focusing on Lionel’s budding soccer career. He provided coaching at the Grandoli soccer club, where Lionel started playing as a child before transferring to Newell’s Old Boys, the largest local club. Newell’s Old Boys conveyed their deep sorrow over Jorge’s passing, acknowledging his lasting impact and love for the club.

Lionel’s Path to Barcelona

When Lionel was 13, he required treatment for a hormone condition affecting his growth. The Messi family couldn’t afford the $900 monthly cost. This challenge led Jorge and Lionel to Spain for a trial with Barcelona in September 2000. Although a deal wasn’t initially struck, by December, negotiations concluded with Barcelona’s director Charly Rexach famously signing Lionel based on a contract written on a napkin. Present at the signing were then-family advisors Josep Maria Minguella and Horacio Gaggioli.

Lionel moved to Barcelona, debuted in 2004, and evolved into one of the greatest soccer players ever. Later, due to Barcelona’s financial issues, he joined Paris Saint-Germain in the summer of 2021 for two seasons. Lionel eventually moved to Inter Miami, where he currently serves as the club captain.