Jorge Messi, father of football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after battling with ill-health for a period of time.
Lionel’s former club, Newell’s Old Boys, confirmed his passing in a statement after multiple Argentina’s media broke the news on Saturday.
“Club Atletico Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. Recognised leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andres Messi.
“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory.
“Thank you for teaching him to love these colours. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment.”
Jorge Messi, a businessman and agent for his superstar footballer son, Lionel, had been ill for a significant period of time and passed away on Friday in his home city of Rosario, Argentina.
His family said during the World Cup in June that Jorge had been dealing with a ‘health-related situation’.
Speculation about Jorge’s health and wellbeing was rife throughout the World Cup. It was even falsely reported that he had died after his son was seen crying during Argentina’s 3-0 win against Algeria in the group stage.
Jorge played an instrumental role in his son’s career, serving as his agent from the beginning. He travelled to Barcelona with a 13-year-old Lionel and the rest – such as eight Ballon d’Or awards, four Champions League wins and 13 domestic league titles – is history. He is survived by his wife, Celia Maria, sons Lionel, Rodrigo and Matias, and daughter Maria Sol.
