Father of the famous Argentinian football player Lionel Messi, Jorge, passed away at the age of 68 after battling a long illness.The news was confirmed on Saturday by Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys as Jorge passed away in his hometown, Rosario. Reports mentioned that his father passed away on Friday night at 10 p.m. local time in a clinic where he was undergoing treatment for chronic illness.
“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini. His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colors. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matas, and Mara Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment. Farewell forever, leproso,” read the statement from the club paying tribute to the old man.
Lionel Messi’s father has been ill from quite a long time. Speculations of his death during FIFA spread like wildfire. However, the Argentinian captain’s family put out a statement to refute rumors that Jorge had passed away and claimed that he was making a steady recovery from illness.
Jorge Messi played a significant role in shaping Lionel Messi’s career as a football player. From the early stages of his journey, Jorge was closely involved in important career decisions and was a trusted voice during the discussions that eventually led to his son leaving Argentina for Barcelona. He also brokered deals that saw Messi join Paris Saint-Germain and then Inter Miami later on his career.