Lionel Messi traveled to Argentina following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The 68-year-old passed away in his hometown of Rosario on Saturday after a lengthy illness. Having served as his son’s agent since the age of 14, Jorge was instrumental in Lionel’s early football career, notably facilitating his move to Barcelona in 2000.
Inter Miami honored Jorge Messi with a minute of silence before their Leagues Cup match against Monterrey, while players wore black armbands. The club also featured Jorge’s name on stadium screens and updated their social media profiles with a black ribbon. During the 2-1 defeat, teammate Rodrigo de Paul dedicated his goal to Messi by holding up the captain’s shirt, and fans in the stands displayed banners of support.
Tributes emerged from across the football world. Barcelona held a moment of silence during their friendly against Nottingham Forest, expressing gratitude for Jorge’s role in the club’s history. Paris St-Germain, Boca Juniors, River Plate, and the Argentine Football Association also shared messages of support. Striker Luis Suarez noted that Jorge would continue to watch over his son with pride.
