Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi’s father and longtime representative, has died at the age of 68, according to multiple media reports published on Saturday.

Reports said Jorge Messi died in Rosario, Argentina, after battling health problems for some time. An official cause of death has not been publicly confirmed.

The news comes weeks after Lionel Messi's family had asked for privacy over Jorge Messi’s health following reports and speculation about his condition.

Jorge Messi’s health had drawn attention during the World Cup

Jorge Messi’s health became a subject of public discussion during the World Cup after Lionel Messi appeared emotional following Argentina’s match against Algeria.

After scoring, Messi addressed the tears and said they were unrelated to football, explaining that he had been going through “a few difficult days”.

Reports subsequently linked his emotional reaction to concerns about his father’s health.

The Messi family later issued a statement confirming that Jorge was dealing with a health-related situation and was receiving medical care.

The family also criticised speculation surrounding the matter and requested privacy and discretion while Jorge recovered.

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Messi’s family had asked for privacy

In June, the Messi family said Jorge was under medical supervision and recovering favourably, while asking people to respect his privacy.

The statement came after conflicting reports about his condition circulated publicly.

Lionel Messi also appeared to limit his public commitments during the period. At the end of July, he missed the MLS All-Star Game, with reports linking his absence to a visit to his father. He later returned to action for Inter Miami.

Jorge Messi’s role in Lionel’s career

Jorge Messi played a significant role in Lionel Messi’s football career and professional affairs.

He was involved in managing his son’s career from an early age and served as his agent. Messi moved from Argentina to Spain as a teenager to join Barcelona’s youth system, beginning the European chapter of a career that would make him one of football’s most decorated players.

Jorge remained involved in Lionel Messi’s professional and business affairs throughout his career.

Messi’s future remains separate from the loss

The news comes as questions continue over Lionel Messi’s future with Argentina.

Argentina Football Association president Claudio “Chiqui” Tapia said on August 7 that Messi’s international future remains his own decision.

Messi, now 39, has not confirmed whether he plans to retire from international football or professional football.

At the World Cup, he scored eight goals in eight matches and finished second to Kylian Mbappé in the Golden Boot race.

Jorge Messi’s death follows months of public attention around his health, despite repeated requests from the family for privacy. For Lionel Messi, the loss comes after a period in which his father’s health had already been a deeply personal concern away from the football pitch.

Further details about funeral arrangements and an official statement from the Messi family, if issued, are awaited.