Jorge Messi passes away in Rosario
Jorge Messi, father and agent of Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68 after a long illness. He died in a hospital in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, during the early hours of Saturday morning. The family confirmed his passing, noting that he had spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia Cuccittini, and his children Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol.
Jorge Messi had served as his son’s agent since Lionel was 14 years old, playing a crucial role in his career development. His support was instrumental from Lionel’s early days at the Malvinas youth academy through to his global football achievements.
A pivotal figure in Lionel Messi’s career
Jorge Messi was a constant presence throughout his son’s career, providing vision, rigour, and affection. He was fundamental in Lionel’s journey to becoming one of the sport’s greatest players. This included the brave decision to move to Europe when local clubs were unwilling to cover the costs of Lionel’s necessary growth treatment.
The family relocated to Spain in February 2001 after Barcelona signed Lionel at the age of 13. While Lionel’s mother and three siblings eventually returned to Rosario, Jorge remained with his son in Barcelona, continuing to guide his career. He was present in Qatar to witness Lionel lead Argentina to their third World Cup triumph in 2022.
Lionel Messi himself acknowledged his father’s influence, stating he always sought his father’s approval after every match. Jorge Messi’s dedication helped his son achieve numerous accolades, including becoming an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, securing four Champions League titles with Barcelona, and winning 10 La Liga titles during his 17 seasons with the club’s first team.
Tributes and condolences
Newell’s Old Boys, Jorge Messi’s local team and Lionel’s first club, expressed their deep sorrow at his passing. In a social media post, the club described him as “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.” They also extended their embrace to Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, and all their loved ones during this difficult time.
FC Barcelona also offered their condolences, thanking Jorge Messi for his commitment to the club and for entrusting them with the beginnings and most glorious years of his son’s football career. The Argentine Football Association shared its deep sadness, expressing solidarity with the entire family and sending a heartfelt embrace.
Speculation regarding Jorge Messi’s health had arisen during the recent World Cup, with the family issuing a statement at the time confirming he was dealing with a “health-related situation” and undergoing medical treatment. Lionel Messi had also spoken of going through “a few difficult, complicated days” during the tournament, attributing his emotional reactions to a personal situation unrelated to football.
Jorge Messi was a recognised fan of Newell’s Old Boys, the club Lionel joined at seven years old.
Source: bbc.co.uk