Lionel Messi’s father Jorge Messi has died at 68 after a long illness. He passed away in Rosario, Argentina, on Friday night. Newell’s Old Boys confirmed his death on Saturday, August 8.
The news follows months of concern surrounding Jorge Messi’s health. His family had earlier confirmed his medical treatment and requested privacy.
The article covers Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi’s early life, role in Messi’s career, business work, and the tributes after his death.
Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Messi Dies in Rosario
Jorge Messi died at a medical clinic in Rosario after a prolonged illness. He was 68 years old.
Reports said Jorge Messi spent his final months between his home and a medical center. His wife Celia and children remained around him during his final days.
Newell’s Old Boys announced his death through an official statement on their Twitter channel. The club described Jorge as a pillar behind Lionel’s career alongside Celia.
Lionel Messi’s Father Had His Own Football Dream
Before becoming Lionel Messi’s agent, Jorge Messi had his own connection with football. He played as a midfielder in Newell’s Old Boys’ youth ranks.
Jorge Messi had to abandon his football ambitions after entering mandatory military service in Argentina. He later built a career outside football as a chemical technician and steelworker.
He worked at Acindar, a major steel company in Argentina. His professional life gave him a different path, while football remained part of his family’s story.
That experience added personal meaning to Lionel Messi’s journey. Jorge Messi had once left football behind, then devoted himself to his son’s ambitions.
Jorge Messi Played Key Role in Lionel Messi’s Barcelona Move
Messi’s dad became deeply involved in his son’s football development during his childhood. He helped manage medical treatment when Lionel needed growth hormone therapy.
In 2000, Jorge Messi travelled with 13-year-old Messi to Barcelona for his trial. The family needed certainty about Messi’s future before committing to the move.
Barcelona’s hesitation created growing frustration for Messi’s father. He eventually pushed for a firm commitment from the club.
The Famous Barcelona Napkin Agreement
A crucial moment came at the Pompeia Tennis Club in December 2000. Barcelona sporting director Charly Rexach met with Lionel’s representatives during the negotiations.
Rexach wrote a commitment to sign Lionel on a paper napkin. The agreement became one of football’s most famous contract stories.
The decision helped keep Lionel Messi’s move to Barcelona alive. He later joined La Masia and began the journey toward becoming a club legend.
Jorge Messi’s Role Extended Beyond Lionel’s Playing Career
Jorge Messi later became Lionel Messi’s representative and managed several professional responsibilities. He handled contract negotiations, transfers, commercial interests, and business affairs.
His work extended beyond football contracts. Jorge Messi also managed Messi’s image rights and investments involving hotels, real estate, and other businesses.
His responsibilities therefore covered both sporting and commercial decisions. Jorge Messi remained a key figure behind Messi’s career for many years.
Lionel Messi’s Emotional World Cup Moment Gained New Meaning
Jorge Messi’s health became a public concern during Argentina’s 2026 World Cup campaign. Messi became emotional after scoring hat-rick against Algeria.
Lionel later said his tears came from personal difficulties unrelated to football. He thanked his teammates and staff for supporting him during difficult days.
The Messi family later confirmed Jorge was facing a health issue. They also criticised speculation surrounding a private family matter.
The World Cup moment now carries greater emotional significance following Messi’s Father’s death. Messi had continued representing Argentina while dealing with serious family concerns.
Messi Spent Time With His Father Before His Death
Lionel Messi visited his dad after Argentina’s World Cup campaign in North America. He later returned to Inter Miami for club football.
Messi also missed the MLS All-Star Game near the end of July. Reports linked his absence to a visit to his father during his illness.
Jorge Messi remained under medical care during his final weeks. His condition had already become a private concern for the Messi family.
Barcelona and Newell’s Old Boys Pay Tribute to Jorge Messi
FC Barcelona paid tribute to Jorge Messi following his death at 68. The club recognised his role during the early and most successful years of Lionel Messi’s career.
“FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career,” the club said.
Newell’s Old Boys also remembered Jorge as a central figure in Lionel’s journey. The club highlighted his support alongside Lionel’s mother, Celia Cuccittini.
The club said,
”’Jorge was the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time.”
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Conclusion
Jorge Messi’s death closes a deeply personal chapter in Lionel Messi’s extraordinary football journey. His influence began long before Lionel Messi became a global sporting icon.
From Rosario to Barcelona, Jorge Messi supported the decisions that shaped his son’s career. His own sacrifices also gave Lionel Messi the freedom to pursue the football dream he once had himself.
Lionel Messi’s success will always carry part of Jorge Messi’s story. His legacy will remain woven into the career of one of football’s greatest players.
