Jorge Messi, the father of Argentina captain Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 after battling health problems.
Messi’s first football team, Newell’s Old Boys, confirmed the news after local media reported Jorge’s death.
Jorge reportedly died in hospital in Rosario, Argentina, close to Messi’s family home, at around 10pm local time on August 7.
“Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario,” Newell’s Old Boys wrote on their X handle on Saturday.
“Recognized leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrés Messi.
“Jorge was 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.
“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.
“Thank you for teaching him to love these colors.
“The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family embrace with affection Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, and all their loved ones and close ones in this difficult moment.
“Farewell forever, leproso.”
