Lionel Messi made a substitute appearance for Inter Miami on Wednesday, returning to the pitch following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. His return came amidst emotional social media posts where the Argentina forward indicated he is considering his future in football.
Jorge Messi passed away last week in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. Messi attended a private funeral in Argentina on Sunday before flying back to the United States.
Emotional Return to Play
Messi entered the match at half-time, receiving a significant ovation from the crowd. Inter Miami ultimately suffered a 3-2 defeat to Mexican side Leon in their final group game of the Leagues Cup. This result marked Miami’s elimination from the competition’s opening phase, a first since the tournament expanded in 2023, the same year Messi joined the club and they lifted the trophy.
Despite the personal tragedy, Messi made himself available to coach Guillermo Hoyos for the crucial match against Leon. He had been absent from Miami’s previous game, a 2-1 loss to Monterrey in the Leagues Cup on Saturday.
Yannick Bright, an Inter Miami midfielder who scored his side’s second goal against Leon, described Messi’s return as “incredible.” Bright expressed that he and his teammates were focused on supporting their captain during this difficult period. “I wasn’t expecting it,” Bright stated, highlighting Messi’s dedication. “It shows how much he cares. When I saw he was here, all I was thinking about was to give my 150% for him.”
Bright further acknowledged the challenging circumstances, adding, “It’s a tough situation. We try to stay close to him and support him as much as we can, but it’s a lot.” Brazilian teammate Casemiro, who joined Miami after the World Cup, also praised Messi’s commitment, calling him “an example for all of us.”
Leon coach Javier Gandolfi also commented on Messi’s presence, stating that Messi “is a human being that is different to the rest.” Gandolfi added, “Today he demonstrated once more what he’s made of.”
Reflecting on a Legacy and Future
Jorge Messi had served as his son’s agent since Messi was 14 years old, witnessing his rise to become one of football’s most celebrated players. He was by Messi’s side when the forward captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. Argentina also reached the final of this summer’s tournament, where they were beaten 1-0 by Spain in extra time.
In his social media tribute, the 39-year-old Argentina forward shared his profound grief and uncertainty about his playing career. He wrote, “I don’t know what I’ll do without you, I don’t know how to go on.” Messi further expressed, “I just played football, and now I have serious doubts about continuing to do so for much longer.”
Messi also revealed that his father had encouraged him to participate in “one last World Cup” despite his deteriorating health. Jorge Messi was a constant presence throughout his son’s career, guiding him from his childhood in Rosario. Messi recalled his father taking him to training sessions after work and attending every possible match, in addition to his role as agent. He described his father as “a father, a friend, and an agent,” always providing the necessary support.
The 2023 Leagues Cup triumph marked a significant moment for Inter Miami, achieved shortly after Messi’s arrival alongside Spanish players Sergio Busquets and Jordi Alba. Miami also reached the 2025 final of the competition but were defeated 3-0 by the Seattle Sounders. That match was notable for a post-final whistle altercation, which resulted in Miami forward Luis Suarez being suspended for this year’s tournament edition.
Messi’s emotional return to play after his father’s passing underscores his commitment to Inter Miami, even as he contemplates his future in the sport.
Source: bbc.co.uk