Lionel Messi Hints at Potential Retirement in Heartfelt Tribute Following Father’s Death

Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has expressed profound uncertainty over his footballing future following the death of his father and long-time representative, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness.

In an emotional message shared on social media on Wednesday, the Inter Miami and Argentina captain admitted he is struggling to process the loss and questioned whether he will continue playing without his father by his side.

“Dad, I still can’t believe you’re gone. It hasn’t sunk in or rather, I don’t want it to sink in,” Messi wrote. “Football was all I did, and now I have serious doubts about whether I’ll keep playing for much longer. You were by my side from the very beginning, and there was so little left until the end.”

Messi revealed that his father’s health worsened significantly just days before the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Despite physical strain and emotional hardship, the forward pressed on during Argentina’s run to the final, hoping his father would recover in time to attend or watch the decisive match.

Jorge Messi played a crucial role in his son’s legendary career, managing his business affairs and securing his pivotal move from Argentina to FC Barcelona at age 13, including funding for his early growth hormone treatments.

With his father having served as his agent, advisor, and closest confidant, the 39-year-old forward acknowledged that moving forward in the sport without him will be his greatest challenge yet.