Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 in Rosario, Argentina, according to his family and Argentine media reports.
Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi began playing football as a child, expressed condolences to the Messi family following Jorge Messi’s death. Reports said he died at a medical clinic in Rosario after receiving treatment for an undisclosed illness.
Jorge Messi played a central role in his son’s development from a young player in Rosario into one of the most decorated footballers in the sport’s history. He coached Lionel during his early years and later became his agent, managing important aspects of his professional career.
When Lionel Messi moved to Spain at the age of 13 to join Barcelona’s youth academy, his father accompanied him. Jorge Messi subsequently became closely involved in negotiations and other decisions surrounding his son’s career as Messi established himself as one of the world’s leading players.
He remained Lionel Messi’s representative during his years at Barcelona and was involved in his subsequent moves to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami, as well as various contract and commercial matters.
Earlier this year, the Messi family confirmed that Jorge Messi was receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed health condition and asked for privacy.
Lionel Messi has previously credited his father with playing an important role in his development and career, including supporting him during the difficult early years of his move to Spain.
Jorge Messi’s death comes after his son built a career that included numerous domestic and international titles with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain and Argentina, including the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Newell’s Old Boys and other football institutions have paid tribute to Jorge Messi and expressed condolences to the Messi family.
