Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Lionel Messi, died at 10 p.m. on August 7 at a clinic in Rosario, Argentina, following a long illness. The news was reported by the Buenos Aires outlet Infobae, which stated that Jorge had been hospitalized at a sanatorium in the city. He was the husband of Celia Cuccittini and the father of Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias, and Maria Sol.

As of August 8, neither the Messi family nor its press office had issued an official statement regarding his passing. Reports from Goal indicated that no major international wire service had independently confirmed the news, and the family has not disclosed the nature of Jorge's illness.

For over two decades, Jorge Messi managed most of Lionel's affairs off the pitch, negotiating significant contract renewals at FC Barcelona and facilitating his transfers to Paris Saint-Germain and Inter Miami. Jorge was known for being a private individual, giving only a few interviews during his lifetime, including to El Gráfico, Germany's Kicker, and Spain's Informe Robinson.

In June, during a World Cup match against Algeria, Lionel Messi was visibly emotional after scoring, later revealing that his tears were related to family matters and the difficult times they had faced. The family had previously issued a statement on June 18 indicating that Jorge was under medical supervision and recovering favorably, condemning speculation about his health.

Jorge Messi played a crucial role in his son's early career, advocating for Lionel's growth hormone treatment when they faced challenges in Argentina. His efforts led to Barcelona signing the young Messi in 2000, agreeing to cover his treatment and providing financial support for the family.

Before becoming an influential figure in football management, Jorge trained as a chemical technician and worked at the Acindar steel plant in the 1980s. He had a brief playing career in Newell's youth ranks until military service interrupted his ambitions.

In a poignant moment during a 2007 interview, Lionel recalled the emotional struggles they faced when moving to Spain, emphasizing the strength they gained from overcoming challenges together. Jorge's legacy as a father and agent will be remembered in the world of football.

Lionel Messi, who turned 39 in June, has achieved remarkable success, including winning eight Ballon d'Or awards and the 2022 World Cup with Argentina.