Messi returns to Argentina after father Jorge’s death with Inter Miami comeback uncertain

Lionel Messi has suspended his football commitments indefinitely following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68, according to reports in Argentina.

Jorge Messi died at a clinic in Rosario after a long illness, leaving his son facing what has been described as a devastating personal loss. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner is understood to have returned to Argentina to be with his family, with no date set for his return to Inter Miami or to competitive football.

French website Foot Mercato, citing Argentine media reports, said Messi had chosen to step back from his professional responsibilities while supporting his loved ones through the bereavement. The decision suggests that football has temporarily moved well down his list of priorities.

Jorge Messi played a central role throughout his son’s career. He was not only Lionel’s father but also his first adviser, representative and source of support as the player developed at Newell’s Old Boys and later moved to Spain.

He made significant personal sacrifices to help Lionel pursue his ambitions and worked behind the scenes during the early stages of a career that would become one of the most decorated in football history.

Jorge’s health had already been a major concern for the Messi family during the most recent World Cup held in the United States. Despite the distance and the demands surrounding the tournament, the situation affected the Argentina captain deeply.

Images from that period showed Messi’s strong emotions when discussing his family and the difficulties his father was experiencing. His relationship with Jorge had long been a significant part of his public and private life.

After receiving news of his father’s death, Messi immediately ended his professional commitments with Inter Miami and travelled to Argentina. The funeral was held privately in Rosario, with the player choosing to remain with his family afterwards.

His mother, siblings, wife and children are expected to provide support during the difficult period. A number of Argentina players are also reportedly expected to visit, including Leandro Paredes, Nicolas Otamendi and Angel Di Maria.

Their possible presence underlines the respect Jorge Messi commanded within Argentine football and the importance of the Messi family to the country’s football community.

The uncertainty surrounding Messi’s next appearance has already prompted speculation in the Argentine press about a possible extended absence from the game. So far, the Inter Miami forward has given no indication of when he may return to the pitch.

Messi is approaching his 39th birthday and has reached an unprecedented point in a career that has included major honours with Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, Inter Miami and Argentina. His immediate situation is now personal rather than sporting, with family responsibilities taking precedence.

There has been no confirmation that Messi intends to retire. However, his decision to suspend his professional commitments without setting a return date has created uncertainty over his future.

After more than two decades competing at the highest level, the Argentina international may now take whatever time he needs before deciding whether to continue his career in the United States or move further away from football.