Lionel Messi posted a farewell message to his father, Jorge Messi, indicating that his professional football playing career may soon come to an end. The 39-year-old Argentina captain shared the emotional tribute on Instagram on Wednesday following the death of his father on Saturday at age 68.
In the message, Messi expressed uncertainty about his future in the sport. He wrote that he did not know what he would do without his father or how to continue, adding that he had spent his life playing football and now doubted he would play much longer.
Tribute to his father and manager
Jorge Messi served as an emotional pillar, football guide, and agent for the global star since his childhood. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner recalled moving to FC Barcelona at age 13 accompanied only by his father.
Messi wrote that Jorge was his father, friend, and manager. He stated that his father was always the person he needed to be at every moment and never made a mistake.
The 2022 World Cup champion currently plays for Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. He joined the North American club three years ago after leaving European football.
Final days in Rosario
Jorge Messi died during the night between Friday and Saturday at a clinic in Rosario, the family's hometown in Argentina. While official sources did not release a cause of death, local media reported that he had cancer.
The player alluded to difficult recent months in his message. Following Argentina's World Cup final loss on July 19, Messi traveled with his family to Rosario to stay by his father's bedside, and he attended private funeral services in the city on Sunday.
Struggles at the 2026 World Cup
Messi reflected on his father's absence during the 2026 World Cup in North America. His father was already ill and unable to attend the final at MetLife Stadium in New York, where Argentina lost 0-1 to Spain after extra time.
The former Camp Nou idol wrote that he had promised his father they would reach the final so he could attend. Messi explained that he wanted to win the tournament for him, but said his legs would no longer follow him. He added that he tried to push against his physical limits, but could not overcome them.
Messi appeared emotionally affected throughout the tournament. He broke into tears after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria in Argentina's opening match, later explaining he was enduring a difficult period due to a situation outside of sports.
Following the tournament, Messi had given no public indication regarding his future with Inter Miami or the national team. His tribute suggests that his professional career is now approaching its end.
