Lionel Messi has reportedly decided to take an indefinite break from football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, with his family now his priority, according to Argentine outlet Doble Amarilla.
The report says Messi has not set a date for his return from Argentina to the United States. Inter Miami have reportedly given the football star the freedom to decide when he feels ready to return.
Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 after battling illness. He was under medical observation and was unable to attend Argentina’s matches during the FIFA World Cup. Reuters also reported that Jorge had been dealing with a prolonged illness before his death.
Messi returns to Argentina for private funeral
Messi travelled from Miami to Argentina on a private flight late on Saturday, August 8. He was accompanied by his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, and their children.
A private funeral ceremony was held on Sunday, August 9, at a cemetery in Perez, near Rosario. A few of Messi’s Argentina teammates also attended the ceremony, according to reports.
Fans gathered outside the El Prado cemetery, leaving handwritten messages in support of the Messi family. Among the messages were “Stay strong, Leo, we love you" and “Stay strong, Messi family," as tributes poured in for the footballer and his family.
Newell’s Old Boys pays tribute to Jorge Messi
Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, issued a tribute after Jorge’s death and remembered his role in supporting his son’s career.
“Club Atlético Newell’s Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario. Recognised Leproso fan, businessman and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrés Messi," the statement said.
“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigour and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini," the statement added.
The reported break comes as Messi and his family mourn a deeply personal loss. There is currently no confirmed date for when he will return to Inter Miami.