Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and adviser, dies at 68

He was a key figure in Lionel Messi's career and remained involved from his son's early days as a footballer through his rise to the top of the sport. Jorge represented Messi in negotiations with clubs and commercial companies and helped build the business setup around the Argentine footballer.

Jorge Messi, father and agent of Lionel Messi, has died aged 68 (Getty) Jorge Messi, father of Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after suffering from a serious illness. According to ESPN Argentina, Jorge died at 9:47 pm on Friday night at a clinic in Rosario. A statement released by Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, read: ‘A recognised Leproso supporter, businessman, and father of the captain of the Argentine national team, Lionel Andes Messi. ‘Jorge was the support and the person who, with vision, rigor, and affection, guided the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. Get the latest transfer news every morning Sign up to our daily football newsletter for personalised updates on who your team is trying to sign and who won't be around next season. ‘His constant support and leadership behind the scenes were fundamental in backing every step Lionel took, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football. ‘Thank you for teaching him to love these colours. Lionel Messi with his father Jorge in 2021 (Shutterstock) ‘The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire Leproso family embrace Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol and all their loved ones and close ones with affection during this difficult time.’ Jorge did not travel to watch his son during Argentina’s World Cup campaign earlier this summer due to his health. After scoring in Argentina’s opening World Cup game against Algeria, Messi was visibly upset and later explained that emotional reaction was due to matters away from the pitch. ‘It’s for a reason completely unrelated to sports, I’ve had some difficult, complicated days. I’m grateful to the entire team, as always, for being by my side,’ Messi said. Jorge Messi and Celia Cuccittini watched their son play for Inter Miami last year (AFP via Getty) Messi’s family were also forced to deny reports that Jorge had died during the tournament. ‘The Messi family wishes to inform you that Jorge Messi is currently dealing with health problems. He is currently under medical supervision and is recovering well,’ a statement read on June 18. ‘Given the reports, rumours and speculation that have been circulating in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern about the lack of sensitivity, respect and discretion with which some people have treated a strictly private family matter.’ More to follow… For more stories like this, check our sport page. Follow Metro Sport for the latest news on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Comment now Comments Add Metro as a Preferred Source on Google Add as preferred source

Lionel Messis father Jorge dies at the age of after battle with illness

Lionel Messi's father Jorge has sadly passed away at the age of 68 after prolonged battle with illness according to multiple reports in Argentina.

Messi was extremely close to his father, who also operated as his agent and de facto business manager throughout his career, overseeing his son's multi-million dollar empire off the pitch.

Messi was extremely close to his father, who also operated as his agent and de facto business manager throughout his career, overseeing his son's multi-million dollar empire off the pitch.