Jorge Messi, the father and former agent of eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after a long illness.
The family confirmed to Reuters that he passed away on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina. He had spent his final months alternating between treatment at a Rosario medical centre and time at home, accompanied by his wife Celia and children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.
Lionel Messi’s childhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, announced the news with a tribute, describing Jorge as a constant companion and behind-the-scenes leader whose support was essential throughout his son’s career. “His constant companionship and behind the scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel,” the club said.
Jorge Messi served as his son’s first coach in Argentina and accompanied the young Lionel when he moved to Barcelona as a teenager. He later acted as his agent for several years and remained a central figure in the player’s life and career. Lionel Messi has previously spoken of his father’s influence, noting that Jorge’s critical feedback pushed him to improve.
Tributes have also come from CONMEBOL and the Argentina national team. Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the recent World Cup before returning to action with Inter Miami.
The Messi family had previously asked for privacy amid health-related speculation during the tournament.
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