Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, passes away at 68

Jorge Messi, father and representative of Lionel Messi, passed away in the early hours of Saturday at a clinic in Rosario, Argentina. He was 68 years old and had been battling a long illness, as confirmed by several sources, including 20minutos and Clarín.

His death occurred while his son, captain of the Argentine national team, was preparing to play a match with Inter Miami in the Leagues Cup. Lionel Messi arrived in Rosario after the news to bid farewell to his father, alongside family and friends, in an intimate ceremony.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) announced that there will be a moment of silence in all Clausura matches in honor of Jorge Messi, while several clubs, including Newell's Old Boys and FC Barcelona, expressed their condolences.

Jorge Messi was a crucial figure in Lionel's career, supporting him from his early days in Rosario to becoming one of the world's best footballers. Throughout his life, he was passionate about football and played a key role in his son's journey.

The news of his passing has generated reactions in the football community and among fans, who have remembered his significance not only as a father and representative but also as a man who guided Lionel in his early steps.

The Messi family has received numerous condolence messages from various sports institutions and figures in the football world, reflecting the shock that Jorge Messi's death has caused in the sports community.