Jorge Messi, the father of Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at the age of 68 at a medical clinic in the Argentine city of Rosario after a long illness, the Argentine footballer's family confirmed to Reuters. Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, for whom he returned to action a week ago. Jorge closely accompanied his son Lionel throughout his career, beginning with his early years at Barcelona. Later, at a press conference, Lionel explained that his tears were due to "something unrelated to football" after going through "a few difficult, complicated days." Days later, the family issued a statement regarding Jorge's "health situation", informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.