Heartbroken Lionel Messi Lays Father Jorge to Rest at Emotional Rosario Funeral, Photos Go Viral. The news sent shockwaves through the football world, prompting an outpouring of condolences from clubs and federations globally. Lionel Messi's Emotional FarewellIn his touching Instagram post, shared with his 515 million followers, Messi, 39, conveyed his disbelief and immense sadness. After every match, I'd ask him what he thought of how I played," Lionel Messi had previously stated. It is verified through official sources (Lionel Messi).