Lionel Messi’s father Jorge dies at 68 after long illness

BUENOS AIRES - Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge, died on Friday night at the age of 68 following a lengthy illness, the footballer’s family confirmed to Reuters. He died at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina.

Dig deeper:

During the final months of his life, Jorge divided his time between a medical center in Rosario and his home, where he was surrounded by his wife, Celia, and their children Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, according to the family.

Lionel Messi spent time with his father following the World Cup in North America before returning to Inter Miami. The Argentine forward resumed action for the club a week ago.

Jorge played an important role throughout Lionel’s football career, supporting him from his early days at Barcelona. He remained a key figure in his son’s life and also represented him professionally for several years.

"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," the 39-year-old had said previously.

The backstory:

Messi went through an emotional World Cup, despite scoring a hat-trick in Argentina’s opening match against Algeria. He broke down in tears while celebrating his first goal of the tournament.

Speaking at a press conference afterward, the Argentina captain said his reaction was caused by "something unrelated to football" and came after "a few difficult, complicated days."

Several days later, Messi’s family released a statement addressing Jorge’s "health situation" and confirmed that he was receiving medical treatment.

What they're saying:

A number of clubs and football organizations offered their condolences following Jorge’s death, including Real Madrid, Messi’s boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys and the Argentine Football Association.

"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," the Argentine FA said in a statement.

Barcelona, where Messi spent the majority of his playing career after making his senior debut in 2004 and remaining with the club until 2021, also paid tribute to Jorge.

"FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginning and the most glorious years of his son Leo's football career," the club said in a statement.

Inter Miami, Messi’s current club, did not immediately respond to a request for comment. The team is scheduled to face Monterrey in the Leagues Cup group stage later on Saturday.

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