Show Quick Read Key points generated by AI, verified by newsroom Lionel Messi took indefinite leave after his father's death. Lionel Messi has stepped away from football indefinitely following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68. Jorge Messi’s Role In Lionel Messi’s CareerJorge was instrumental in supporting Lionel from his earliest years in Argentina. He also played an important role in managing the medical treatment Messi required for a growth hormone deficiency during his childhood. Barcelona eventually agreed to cover the costs of Messi's treatment, helping clear one of the major obstacles in his path towards professional football.