Jorge Messi, father and agent of football legend Lionel Messi, dies at 68

Lionel Messi's father and agent, Jorge Messi, has died at the age of 68.

He died on Friday night, August 7, at a medical clinic in the Argentinian city of Rosario after a long illness, the family have announced.

Jorge Messi spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his wife, Celia, and his children Rodrigo, Matías and María Sol.

Jorge Messi closely accompanied his son throughout his career, beginning with his early years at Barcelona.

He acted as a crucial pillar of support and, for several years, served as his representative.

"I always needed my dad's approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I'd ask him what he thought of how I played," Lionel Messi had previously said.

Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami.

At the World Cup, after Argentina's 3-0 victory over Algeria, Lionel Messi said in tears that he was going through a difficult personal situation.

He later explained his tears were due to "something unrelated to football" after going through "a few difficult, complicated days."

There was speculation that the player's emotional reaction to Argentina's last-16 victory over Egypt was due in part to his father's deteriorating condition.

A few days later, the family stated that Jorge Messi's "health situation" was being addressed, informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.

Club Atlético Newell's Old Boys announced the death in a social media post, saying he had undergone treatment in recent months for an unspecified illness.

The post described him as "the pillar and the person who, with vision, rigour and affection, supported the career of the best player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini."

The Argentinian FA also expressed its condolences in a statement, saying: "From here, we stand in solidarity with the entire family during this difficult time and send the most heartfelt, warm, and affectionate embrace. Strength to you all."