- Lionel Messi has mourned the death of his father, Jorge
- He said he is unsure how long he will continue playing football
- Messi described his father as a key figure throughout his career
Lionel Messi has admitted he is uncertain about continuing his football career following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away last week at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness.
In an emotional message shared on social media, Eko Hot Blog gathered that the Argentina captain reflected on the close relationship he had with his father, who became his agent when Messi was just 14 and remained an important figure throughout his career.
Messi said his father had been beside him from the beginning of his football journey and expressed difficulty imagining life without him.
He also revealed that he was now questioning whether he would continue playing football for much longer, saying his father’s death had left him unsure about what comes next.
Jorge Messi played a significant role in his son’s rise from Rosario to becoming one of the most decorated footballers in history. He closely followed Messi’s career, including his success with Argentina at the 2022 World Cup.
Messi returned to Rosario with his family following his father’s death. A private funeral was later held at a cemetery in Perez, a town near Rosario.
In his tribute, Messi recalled how much his father wanted to see him participate in another World Cup. He said Jorge had repeatedly encouraged him to continue playing until the tournament.
Messi said his father’s health deteriorated shortly before the competition, preventing him from travelling to watch his son.
The football star revealed that he had hoped Argentina would reach the final so his father could have another opportunity to watch him play.
According to Messi, the absence of his father’s messages after matches made him realise how serious his condition had become.
Despite the emotional strain, Messi continued with the tournament and helped Argentina reach the final. However, they eventually lost 1-0 to Spain.
Messi said he had wanted to win the trophy and present it to his father, but admitted that he struggled physically during the final and could not produce the performance he had hoped for.
The death of Jorge Messi has added another emotional chapter to the career of the 39-year-old football icon, whose future remains uncertain following his latest comments.
Messi has yet to announce any decision about retirement, but his tribute suggests that the loss of his father has caused him to reconsider his relationship with the sport that has defined much of his life
