Following his return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance in Inter Miami’s 4-2 victory over Atlético de San Luis in the Leagues Cup. Messi scored two goals, including an exquisite volley in the 11th minute, and provided a late first-half assist for Micael. His dominant display earned high praise from head coach Guillermo Hoyos, who described Messi’s striking technique as akin to artistic perfection: “If we were talking about painting, it would be Picasso.”
However, amidst his brilliance on the pitch, the football community is mourning a significant loss off the field. As reported by Forbes, Jorge Messi, the father and agent of FC Barcelona legend Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68 in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina. He reportedly died around 10:00 PM local time following a long-term illness that was closely monitored during the World Cup.
Jorge Messi, father and representative of Lionel Messi, died at the age of 68 after suffering a serious illness. pic.twitter.com/5A7FFLdzwJ
— ESPN FC (@ESPNFC) August 8, 2026
Jorge Messi played a historic role in shaping modern football, famously orchestrating his son’s move to Europe when Lionel was just 13, signing Barcelona’s initial agreement on a napkin with Carles Rexach in December 2000. Tributes quickly poured in from across the sport, led by Messi’s boyhood club, Newell’s Old Boys, and FC Barcelona. In an official statement, Barcelona expressed its deepest condolences: “FC Barcelona thanks Jorge Messi for his commitment to our club and for entrusting us with the beginnings and the most glorious years of his son Leo’s football career. May he rest in peace.”
Following his return from the 2026 FIFA World Cup with Argentina, Lionel Messi delivered a masterclass performance in Inter Miami’s 4-2 victory over Atlético de San Luis in the Leagues Cup. Messi scored two goals, including an exquisite volley in the 11th minute, and provided a late first-half assist for Micael.
