Messi Opens Up on Football Future After Father’s Death

Lionel Messi has opened up about his uncertain football future following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, revealing that the loss has made him question how much longer he can continue playing the sport that defined their lives together.

Messi paid an emotional tribute to his father on social media after Jorge, 68, died on August 7 following a prolonged illness. In the message, the Inter Miami and Argentina captain described Jorge as his father, friend and representative, reflecting on the enormous influence he had on his life and career.

The 39-year-old recalled how his father had repeatedly encouraged him to play at the 2026 World Cup. As Jorge’s health deteriorated before the tournament, Messi said he hoped his father would recover sufficiently to watch him play.

Messi also revealed that he had promised Jorge that Argentina would reach the World Cup final, giving him the chance to see him on football’s biggest stage. Argentina eventually reached the final, but Jorge was unable to attend.

The absence became particularly painful for Messi after matches. He said he would instinctively look at his phone expecting the messages and encouragement he had received from his father throughout his career, only to realise that Jorge was no longer able to send them.

Messi admitted that he wanted to win another World Cup and bring the trophy home to his father. Argentina ultimately fell short in the final.

Now, with Jorge gone, Messi says he is struggling to imagine continuing without him and has begun questioning how much longer he wants to play.

His comments have sparked retirement speculation, but Messi has not announced a decision to quit football.

Instead, his message reflects a player confronting a deeply personal loss and reassessing a career that has always been closely connected to his father.

Jorge played a central role in Messi’s journey from Rosario to global stardom, helping guide his career from its earliest stages.

Messi ended his tribute with a simple declaration of love for his father, promising to carry his lessons forward as he raises his own children.

For now, the football world waits to see whether Messi will continue beyond this chapter, but his message makes clear that the decision has become deeply personal.