By Collins Sarkodieh 
The global football community has been plunged into deep mourning following the death of Jorge Messi, the devoted father and longtime representative of Argentina superstar Lionel Messi.
Jorge passed away peacefully on Friday night August 7 2026 at a medical facility in his hometown of Rosario Argentina at the age of 68 after battling a prolonged illness.
Family members confirmed that Jorge spent his final months receiving medical treatment between the clinic and his family home surrounded by his wife Celia and children Rodrigo Matias Maria Sol and Lionel.
Jorge played a crucial foundational role in shaping his son from a young boy playing on local pitches in Rosario into arguably the greatest footballer in history.
When young Lionel needed costly growth hormone treatment at age 13, Jorge made the life changing decision to move the family to Spain so Barcelona could fund the medical care and nurture his talent.
Beyond being a loving father, Jorge served as Lionel’s professional agent for decades, guiding contract negotiations with Barcelona, Paris Saint Germain, and Inter Miami.
Lionel once shared that he always sought his father’s approval after matches because Jorge remained his biggest advisor and most honest critic throughout his career.
Tributes have poured in from football institutions worldwide, with boyhood club Newell’s Old Boys describing Jorge as the pillar who supported Lionel’s journey to global glory with vision and affection.
For football fans around the world, Jorge leaves behind an enduring legacy as the quiet force who nurtured and guided the career of a true sporting icon.
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