Lionel Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, has died at age 68 following a long illness, according to confirmation from Argentine club Newell’s Old Boys. In June, the family released a statement noting ongoing medical treatment and requested privacy from the press. Newell’s Old Boys announced the news on Saturday, expressing deep sorrow over the passing of Jorge Messi in Rosario. The Sanatorio Centro medical facility also released a statement through its director, confirming the death occurred at 2 a.m. and offering condolences to the family while withholding further medical details to protect privacy. Jorge Messi served as his son’s agent throughout his career, arranging transfers and prioritising his welfare during moves to clubs including Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. He never used an external representative. Originally a chemical technician and steelworker, Jorge Messi played as a midfielder in the youth system at Newell’s Old Boys before military service ended his playing days. He accompanied his son to Barcelona for a trial in the early 2000s that led to his entry into the club’s youth academy. Lionel Messi turned professional in 2005 and later secured eight Ballon d’Or awards plus the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.
