Argentina football captain Lionel Messi has returned to his hometown of Rosario to pay his final respects to his father, Jorge Messi, who died at the age of 68.
Messi arrived in Rosario on Saturday aboard a private flight from Miami, accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children. He travelled to Argentina a day after his father’s death, according to reports from Reuters and other international media.
Jorge Messi, who had been his son’s longtime agent and a key figure in his football career, died in Rosario following a prolonged illness. The cause of death has not been officially disclosed.
The elder Messi played a major role in guiding his son from his early years in Rosario to global football stardom. He accompanied Lionel when the youngster travelled to Barcelona for trials as a teenager and later managed many aspects of his professional career.
Messi’s return to Rosario comes as tributes continue to pour in from the football community. FC Barcelona, where Messi spent more than two decades and established himself as one of the sport’s greatest players, expressed condolences to the Messi family. His hometown club, Newell’s Old Boys, also paid tribute to Jorge.
The Argentine football community has also honoured Jorge Messi following his death, with the Argentine Football Association arranging tributes during matches in recognition of his contribution to his son’s career and the wider football community.
Messi, widely regarded as one of football’s greatest players, has maintained a close relationship with his father throughout his career. Jorge’s influence was particularly significant during the early stages of Messi’s development and his move from Argentina to Europe.
The family is expected to hold a private farewell ceremony in Rosario as they mourn Jorge Messi’s death.
