Messi Questions Football Future After Father's Death

Argentina captain Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his football future after the death of his father and long-time adviser, Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 following a prolonged illness. In an emotional tribute, Messi, currently playing for Inter Miami, reflected on the profound personal loss and the difficulty of envisioning life without his father, who played a pivotal role in his career from childhood through to his rise as one of football's greatest players.

Messi admitted that his father's death has prompted him to reconsider his future in the sport, leading to speculation about an earlier-than-expected retirement, although he has not made any formal announcement. The relationship between Messi and his father was deeply influential, with Jorge serving as a manager and adviser throughout Messi's career.

Messi's reflections also touched on the 2026 World Cup, where he faced emotional challenges but aimed to fulfill his father's wish by competing.