Omotayo Fashola
(Lionel Messi and Jorge Messi. Photo credit: Getty Images)
Football legend Lionel Messi penned an emotional homage to his late father and longtime mentor, Jorge Messi, revealing how the loss has left him uncertain about his future in the sport.
Jorge, who played a pivotal role in shaping Messi’s career as both his father and agent, passed away recently. The Argentinian icon shared his grief on Instagram, posting a touching tribute.
“Dad, it still doesn’t feel real,” Messi wrote, expressing disbelief over his father’s passing while acknowledging the pain he had endured.
Messi recalled how he had hoped Jorge would recover in time to witness Argentina’s journey to the 2026 World Cup final—a dream that went unfulfilled due to his father’s illness.
“I kept saying we’d reach the finals so you could be there,” Messi reflected.
Despite Argentina advancing to the championship match, Jorge’s absence weighed heavily on Messi. The Inter Miami star admitted he pushed himself to win the trophy in his father’s honor but fell short due to physical struggles.
“We got there, but you weren’t by my side. I wanted to lift the trophy for you, but my body couldn’t take it anymore. This time, I tried to push beyond my limits—but it wasn’t enough,” he confessed.
The 39-year-old also reminisced about Jorge’s unwavering support during his formative years, driving him to training after long workdays and rarely missing a game.
“You were more than just my dad—you were my mentor and my agent,” Messi wrote.
Yet, beyond the business of football, Messi cherished the life lessons and tough love that shaped him. “You taught me everything—as a player, but most importantly, as a man.”
Overwhelmed by grief, Messi admitted questioning his future in football. “Right now, I don’t know if I can keep playing. Soccer was my life, but without you, it feels different.”
Despite the heartache, Messi vowed to honor Jorge’s legacy by raising his own children with the same love and guidance he received.
“You’ll always be with me, especially in how I raise my kids—just like you raised me. Watch over us from above. Thank you for everything.”
