Jorge Messi, father and long-time agent of Argentine football great Lionel Messi, died on Saturday at the age of 68 in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. His death was confirmed by Newell's Old Boys, the Rosario club where Lionel Messi spent part of his youth career before moving to Barcelona. Jorge had been receiving treatment in recent months for an undisclosed illness. The South American Football Confederation (CONMEBOL) also expressed condolences following his death, joining the football world in mourning a man who remained one of the most influential figures behind Messi throughout his career.
The man behind Messi’s career
Jorge was far more than the father of one of football's greatest players. He served for years as Messi's agent and representative, overseeing negotiations and major career decisions as his son rose from a gifted youngster in Rosario to a global sporting icon. A former steel industry worker, Jorge played an instrumental role during the formative years of Messi's career. When it became clear that his son possessed exceptional footballing ability, the family pursued opportunities that could allow him to develop at the highest level. That journey ultimately took Messi from Newell's Old Boys in Argentina to Barcelona at the age of 13.
Move to Barcelona changed everything
Jorge accompanied his son during the move to Spain, a decision that would transform not only Messi's life but the history of Barcelona and world football. Messi progressed through Barcelona's famed youth system before making his senior breakthrough and becoming the centrepiece of one of the most successful periods in the club's history.
Behind the scenes, Jorge increasingly took charge of his son's professional affairs, eventually becoming his long-time agent. As Messi's profile grew, Jorge handled negotiations surrounding contracts, transfers, sponsorships and other business matters, remaining an important presence throughout his son's career.
At centre of major career decisions
Jorge's role became particularly prominent during some of the biggest moments in Messi's club career. He represented his son during contract negotiations at Barcelona and remained closely involved when Messi's extraordinary spell at the Catalan club came to an end in 2021. Jorge continued to play a significant role during Messi's subsequent moves to Paris Saint-Germain and later to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer. Despite the intense public attention surrounding his son's career, Jorge largely remained a behind-the-scenes figure, emerging publicly most often when major contractual or transfer decisions were being discussed.
Tributes from football world
Newell's Old Boys paid tribute to Jorge following confirmation of his death. The club holds a special place in the Messi family's history, with Lionel having played there as a youngster before leaving Argentina for Barcelona. CONMEBOL also offered its condolences to Lionel Messi and his family. Jorge's death comes weeks after Lionel Messi represented Argentina at the 2026 World Cup. Reports said the footballer had been dealing with concerns over his father's health during the tournament.