Jorge Messi, father and agent of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, passed away on Saturday at the age of 68. He was receiving care at Sanatorio Centro, a medical facility in Rosario, Argentina. Dr. Carlos Mackey, the hospital’s medical director, confirmed that Jorge Messi died in the early hours of the morning, adding that no further details regarding the cause of death would be released out of respect for the family’s privacy.
The news of Jorge Messi’s passing led to an outpouring of tributes from across the football world. Inter Miami CF, Lionel Messi’s current club, expressed their condolences, stating, “Our hearts are with our captain, Leo, and the entire Messi family.” The club also shared a graphic with the message in Spanish. Major League Soccer (MLS) also paid tribute, extending heartfelt condolences to Lionel Messi and his family, and acknowledging Jorge’s devotion to his family and support throughout Lionel’s journey.
Tributes from Football Community
Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario-based club where Lionel Messi played as a youth, confirmed the passing and offered a tribute on social media. They described Jorge as a “renowned leproso fan,” businessman, and the father who underpinned Lionel’s career with vision, rigor, and affection, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. The club highlighted his constant accompaniment and leadership behind the scenes as fundamental to supporting Lionel’s journey from his beginnings to achieving maximum glory in world football.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA), the governing body of football in the country, expressed its sadness and regret. The Argentine national team also conveyed its support for the Messi family, stating, “We are with you in this difficult moment. We send you our most heartfelt hug.” The South American Football Confederation (Conmebol) also mourned the loss and sent a message of support to Lionel and his family.
Jorge Messi’s Impact on Lionel’s Career
Jorge Messi was a crucial figure in his son’s football career, serving as his agent. His involvement was pivotal when Lionel, at the age of 13, required treatment for Growth Hormone Deficiency. Argentine clubs had declined to cover the treatment costs, leading Jorge to seek assurances that Lionel would have a club to play for and that his medical treatments would be covered.
This search led to a significant moment in football history when, after a game of tennis, two agents working with Jorge Messi drafted a deal on a napkin. This agreement was then signed by FC Barcelona sporting director Carles Rexach. Lionel Messi went on to win 10 La Liga titles and four UEFA Champions League crowns with the Catalan club. UNICEF, for which Lionel Messi is a goodwill ambassador, also sent condolences, describing Jorge Messi as “a person always committed to the rights of boys and girls and a benefactor of UNICEF.”
The Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) also sent its love and affection to Lionel and his loved ones during this time of deep sorrow. Jorge Messi was with his son through significant career milestones, including his time with Barcelona, his transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, and his experiences with the Argentine national team over more than 20 years. Lionel Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023.
Source: eu.usatoday.com
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