Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine star Lionel Messi, died Friday evening in a hospital in the Argentine city of Rosario, at the age of 68, after a long battle with illness.
Following the announcement of the death, Newell's Old Boys, the Argentinian club where Lionel Messi grew up, published a lengthy statement of condolence to console the former Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain star on the passing of his father, thus becoming the first team to officially mourn Jorge Messi in this great tragedy.
The statement published by the Argentine club on its official platforms reads: "Newell's Old Boys bids farewell with great sadness and sorrow to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in Rosario... a loyal fan of the club, a businessman, and the father of the Argentine national team captain, star Lionel Andres Messi."
The Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys club was promoted to Jorge Messi, who fell 68 years ago in the city of Rosario.
Reconocido hincha leproso, empresario y padre del capitán del argentino, Lionel Andrés Messi.
He added, "Jorge has always been the true support, the man who laid the foundations for the career of the best player in history with insightful vision, strict discipline, and boundless affection, along with his wife Celia Cuccittini."
The statement continued, "His constant presence and wise leadership behind the scenes were a fundamental pillar in supporting Lionel every step of the way, from his early days at Newell's Old Boys to reaching the pinnacle of glory in world football. Thank you, for instilling in his heart a love for our club's colors. The board, members, athletes, and the entire club family extend their deepest condolences and sincerest sympathies to Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, Maria Sol, and all family members and loved ones in this great loss."
It is worth noting that Jorge Messi played a pivotal role in his son Lionel’s career since childhood, accompanying him on his move to Barcelona when he was thirteen years old, and remained for many years his business manager and responsible for managing his professional affairs, before gradually stepping away from the spotlight in recent years due to illness.
