Temi Kings
The sporting world is uniting in grief following the tragic news that Jorge Messi, father and lifelong manager of football icon Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68.
An essential figure behind the greatest career in modern football history, Jorge was far more than just an agent to his son. From Lionel’s early childhood days in Rosario, Argentina, Jorge recognized his son's extraordinary talent, balancing his work as a steel factory manager at Acindar while coaching young Lionel at local club Grandoli. When a 13-year-old Messi faced growth hormone deficiency that threatened his future, it was Jorge who relentlessly advocated for his son, making the life-changing journey to Europe to secure a contract with FC Barcelona’s famed La Masia academy.
Throughout Messi’s legendary career, spanning historic achievements at Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami, and Argentina's fairytale 2022 FIFA World Cup triumph, Jorge remained the guiding hand managing his off-field affairs, contract negotiations, and career transitions. His steadfast presence provided the baseline of stability that allowed Lionel to capture eight Ballon d'Or awards and solidify his status as the greatest player of all time.
Tributes have begun flooding in from former teammates, international clubs, and football governing bodies worldwide, offering heartfelt condolences to Lionel, his family, and everyone close to the Messi household during this deeply painful moment.