Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his future in professional football following the death of his father and longtime representative, Jorge Messi, revealing that he is unsure whether he will continue playing for much longer.
In an emotional tribute to his father, Messi said the loss had left him struggling to imagine life without the man who had been a constant presence throughout his career. He also acknowledged that he now has serious doubts about continuing in football.
Jorge Messi, 68, died in Rosario, Argentina, after a prolonged health battle. He was not only Messi’s father but also his longtime agent and one of the most influential figures behind the development of his son’s career.
Related News: Lionel Messi’s Father Jorge Dies at 68 in Argentina
Messi’s tribute highlighted the depth of their relationship. He recalled how his father had encouraged him to play at the 2026 World Cup despite his worsening condition. The tournament was the first major competition in Messi’s career that Jorge was unable to attend.
The circumstances surrounding Jorge’s health had already been a source of concern during the World Cup. In June, the Messi family confirmed that he was receiving medical treatment and asked the public and media to respect their privacy after false reports of his death circulated. Reuters reported at the time that he was recovering from an undisclosed health condition.
Messi subsequently continued with Argentina at the World Cup, where he helped the team reach the final. The emotional strain became particularly visible during the tournament, with the forward seen in tears after scoring against Algeria. He later said the emotion was connected to a personal matter rather than football.
Related News: Olajengbesi Demands ₦10bn From Fadahunsi Over Alleged Defamation, Cult Link
Following Jorge’s death, Messi was absent from Inter Miami’s recent Leagues Cup fixture against Monterrey as he mourned with his family. The club paid tribute to his father with a moment of silence and black armbands, while Rodrigo De Paul also dedicated a goal celebration to Messi.
Jorge played a central role in Messi’s extraordinary rise from Rosario to global football stardom. He remained closely involved in his son’s career from Messi’s childhood and helped facilitate his move to Barcelona at the age of 13.
Messi’s latest comments do not amount to a formal retirement announcement. Rather, they reflect a player grieving the loss of someone who was central to both his personal life and football journey.
At 39, Messi is already in the latter stages of a career that has included Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, alongside major international success with Argentina, including the 2022 World Cup triumph.
Related News: INEC Adds SDP Candidate to Osun Ballot, Election Now 15-Way Race
His latest admission nevertheless raises the possibility that the death of his father could accelerate a decision about when to bring one of football’s most celebrated careers to an end.
