Lionel Messi’s father and longtime agent, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68. Newell’s Old Boys, the Rosario soccer club where Lionel began his journey, announced the news on social media Saturday and remembered Jorge as a devoted father whose guidance helped his son become one of the greatest players in the sport’s history. Jorge reportedly died Friday at a clinic in Rosario, Argentina, after experiencing health issues in recent months. A cause of death has not been publicly disclosed.
Newell’s Old Boys described Jorge as a “pillar” who supported Lionel 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,” the club said in a translated social media message.
In a separate statement, Newell’s expressed its grief while recognizing Jorge’s relationship with the club and influence over Lionel’s career. “Newell’s Old Boys mourn with profound pain and sorrow the passing of Jorge Messi,” the statement read. “He was a renowned [Newell’s] supporter, businessman and the father of the captain of the Argentina national team, Lionel Messi.”
The club continued, “Jorge was the support and the person who, together with his wife, Celia, strengthened the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, rigor and affection. His constant support and behind-the-scenes leadership were fundamental in supporting every step of Lionel’s journey.”
Jorge Messi Guided His Son’s Historic Soccer Career
Jorge was more than Lionel’s father. He also served as his agent and helped manage the decisions behind one of soccer’s most celebrated careers. His involvement spanned Lionel’s rise from Rosario to global superstardom, including his years with Barcelona, his move to Paris Saint-Germain and his current chapter with Inter Miami.
Although his work frequently took place away from the field, the tributes following his death emphasized how essential that behind-the-scenes guidance was to Lionel’s success.
Barcelona acknowledged Jorge’s contribution to the club in its own memorial statement. The organization said it wanted to “on behalf of the entire Barça family, extend their condolences to the Messi family.”
“FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our club, for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career. May he rest in peace,” the club added, per ESPN.
The South American Football Confederation, CONMEBOL, also expressed its condolences “with respect and affection for Lionel.”
Lionel Messi Recently Spoke About ‘Difficult, Complicated Days’
Jorge’s health had become a source of concern during the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Lionel was visibly emotional after scoring against Algeria in Argentina’s opening match in June. He ultimately recorded a hat trick as his team secured a 3-0 victory.
After the match, Lionel explained that his emotions extended beyond what had happened on the field. “I have been through some difficult, complicated days,” he said. “I am thankful for the support I have received from my teammates and the staff during this time.”
The soccer star said the emotion he displayed during and after the game “had nothing to do with football.”
Messi Family Confirmed Jorge Was Receiving Medical Care
One week after Lionel’s emotional World Cup performance, the family issued a statement confirming that Jorge was dealing with a health problem.
“The Messi family informs that Jorge Messi is currently going through a health situation,” the statement read. “At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favorably within the condition he is experiencing.”
The statement was released after reports and speculation about Jorge’s condition began circulating during the tournament.
Another version of the family’s update said, “…he is under medical care, recovering and evolving favorably given the condition he is experiencing.” At the time, the family’s message suggested that Jorge was improving under medical supervision. His death weeks later brings heartbreaking context to Lionel’s tearful reaction following the Algeria match.
The exact nature of Jorge’s medical condition was not disclosed in the information released by the family, and his cause of death remains unknown.
Jorge Messi Is Survived By His Wife And Four Children
Jorge is survived by his wife, Celia, and their four children.
In addition to Lionel, the couple shares two older sons, Rodrigo and Matías, and a younger daughter, María Sol.
