Lionel Messi pays tribute to late father Jorge
Lionel Messi has paid tribute to his late father, Jorge, who passed away at the age of 68. Jorge reportedly died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, close to Messi’s family home, on August 7, reports BritPanorama.
Messi, 39, missed Inter Miami’s League Cup defeat against Monterrey to travel to Argentina for his father’s funeral. The football star took to social media to share a heartfelt message, voicing his grief and expressing uncertainty about the future of his football career.
In his post, Messi wrote: “Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone. It hasn’t sunk in – or rather, I don’t want it to. It’s very hard for me to imagine that I’m never going to see you again, that we’re never going to talk again.” He added that Jorge left too soon and reflected on how much they still had to enjoy together.
The Argentine great conveyed his deep sense of loss, sharing that despite reaching the World Cup final, his father could not be there. “I wanted to win it so I could bring it to you and show you another one,” he lamented, recalling their frequent communications regarding his career and matches.
Messi’s message continued, revealing the profound impact of Jorge on his life and career: “I don’t know what I’m going to do without you. I don’t know how to keep going.” He acknowledged the role Jorge played in nurturing his talent from a young age and emphasized his father’s unwavering support throughout his journey.
Expressing gratitude towards his fans, Messi wrote in a follow-up message, “I want to sincerely thank everyone for the affection, respect, and tremendous consideration you have shown me and my family during this very painful time.” The 39-year-old underscored the importance of privacy during their period of mourning.
Jorge Messi managed his son’s commercial interests and served as his agent throughout his illustrious career, which includes a transition from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain and now to Inter Miami. Their close relationship goes beyond the professional realm; Lionel is the third of four children Jorge had with his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
Jorge, who initially worked in the steel industry, played a significant part in shaping Lionel’s path to becoming one of football’s greatest players. He was instrumental in securing Messi’s major career moves, including the switch to PSG and the recent step to Inter Miami.
As fans and football lovers reflect on this poignant moment, Messi’s tribute serves as a reminder of the profound bonds that shape athletes’ lives, often intertwined with their personal journeys amid the glitz of professional sport.
