Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's Father and Former Agent, Dies at 68

Jorge Messi, the father and former representative of Argentina football captain Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina. He was 68. The family confirmed that his death followed a prolonged illness.

Officials were not cited in the family’s statement, but the family said Jorge Messi had moved between clinical care and his home in recent months as his health declined. No further medical details were provided in the information released.

Role in Lionel Messi’s career and early representation

Jorge Messi was closely involved throughout his son’s Jorge Messi was closely involved throughout his son’s rise, serving as Lionel Messi’s primary agent during his formative years at FC Barcelona. The source material describes his role as pivotal in helping steer the early stages of a career that later became one of the most decorated in modern football. Beyond contract and career management, the family dynamic was presented as an important part of Lionel Messi’s development. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has often cited his father’s approval as a critical factor in his performance and progression, underscoring an influence that extended past professional decision-making. Recent health struggles disclosed during the World Cup period The Messi family had previously acknowledged Jorge Messi’s health struggles during the recent World Cup. During that period, Lionel Messi said he was dealing with significant personal challenges, linking his public responsibilities as captain with private pressures at home.

After the tournament

After the tournament, Lionel Messi spent time with his father in Argentina, according to the source material. He then returned to Inter Miami for club duties last week, a detail that places the family’s recent timeline in the context of his ongoing playing commitments.

Newell’s Old Boys issues tribute from Rosario

Tributes were issued following the death, including a formal statement from Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi played as a child. The club highlighted Jorge Messi’s role in supporting his son’s professional trajectory.

In its tribute, Newell’s Old Boys described his constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership as essential in backing each step of Lionel Messi’s career. The club’s message framed his contribution as foundational support rather than public-facing involvement.

Details on funeral arrangements, additional family statements, or broader commemorations were not included in the source material. It also remains unclear whether further information will be released by the family or relevant institutions in Rosario in the coming days.