Football superstar Lionel Messi has stepped away from the game following the heartbreaking death of his father, Jorge Messi, throwing fresh uncertainty over whether the Argentine legend will return to competitive football.
Jorge Messi, who played an enormous role in his son’s extraordinary career as both a father and longtime representative, died aged 68 in Rosario, Argentina.
Reports indicate that Messi has suspended his football commitments for the time being, with no firm date announced for his full return. However, the 39-year-old has not formally announced his permanent retirement from professional football.
The tragedy appears to have left the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner questioning what comes next.
In an emotional tribute to his father, Messi acknowledged having serious doubts about how much longer he wants to continue playing. Jorge had been beside him throughout virtually every stage of his journey—from his childhood football days in Argentina to his historic rise at Barcelona and eventual status as one of the greatest players of all time.
Messi also revealed that his father’s declining health had weighed heavily on him during the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Argentina reached the final before losing to Spain. He said fulfilling his father’s wish was among the reasons he pushed himself to participate in the tournament.
Following the devastating loss, football has understandably taken a back seat as Messi spends time grieving with his family.
The development has sparked enormous concern among supporters who are now wondering whether the temporary break could eventually become a permanent farewell.
Messi remains an Inter Miami player, but his emotional message makes one thing clear: his football future is no longer certain.
For millions of fans around the world, the hope will be that Messi eventually finds the strength to return to the pitch. But after losing the man who guided him from childhood to global superstardom, football’s greatest No. 10 may now be approaching the most difficult decision of his legendary career.
