Lionel Messi has reportedly decided to remain in Argentina indefinitely as he spends time with his family following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, earlier this week. According to reports citing Argentine outlet Doble Amarilla, the Inter Miami captain currently has no confirmed date for returning to the United States, leaving his next appearance for the MLS side uncertain. Jorge Messi, 68, died in Rosario after a prolonged illness. He had been a hugely influential figure throughout Lionel’s career, serving as his agent and one of his closest advisers.
Messi’s absence comes at a particularly important stage of Inter Miami’s season. The Argentine had already been dealing with a minor right-leg muscle injury sustained during the club’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa, with Inter Miami confirming that his return would depend on his recovery. The latest reports suggest that Messi’s immediate priority is being with his loved ones in Argentina rather than setting a football-related return date. While Doble Amarilla reports an indefinite stay, Inter Miami has not publicly announced a new return timeline, meaning his availability for upcoming matches remains unclear.
“My dad was always there with me”: How Jorge Messi’s sacrifices shaped Lionel Messi’s legendary career
Lionel Messi’s journey to football immortality began with a major challenge during his childhood. Growing up in Rosario, Argentina, Messi was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency that required regular and expensive treatment. His family struggled to meet the cost, while his father, Jorge Messi, worked at a steel company and took on extra hours to support his son. The Argentine player later recalled, “My dad made huge sacrifices for me to play football. He worked extra hours at the factory just so I could have my hormone treatments.” The family eventually looked outside Argentina for a sustainable solution, and in 2000, 13-year-old Messi travelled to Spain for a trial with Barcelona. The club agreed to cover his medical treatment and brought him into its youth system.
The move meant leaving behind Rosario, his friends and much of his childhood, but Jorge remained beside his son. The former World Cup winning skipper remembered the difficult transition, saying, “It was very hard when I first arrived in Barcelona. I missed my family, my home, my friends. But my dad was always there with me.” Jorge later remained involved as Messi’s representative and adviser as his career exploded. From becoming Barcelona’s record goalscorer to winning eight Ballon d’Or awards and finally lifting the 2022 World Cup with Argentina, the 39 year old player’s extraordinary career was built on immense talent, but also on the sacrifices and unwavering support of his family.
