Lionel Messi Faced ‘Difficult, Complicated Days’ Before His Father’s Death

Cameras caught Messi in tears after a goal that should have been pure celebration. The real story behind that moment only came into focus after tragedy struck his family.

Before his father Jorge Messi's devastating death on August 8, 2026, Lionel Messi had already given fans a glimpse into a painful chapter unfolding behind the scenes, even as he stood at the peak of his career.

During the 2026 World Cup in June, the soccer icon had a visibly emotional reaction after finding the net for Argentina in the team's group match against Algeria.

Argentina's commanding start to the tournament was defined by the 39-year-old's hat-trick that day, a performance that pulled him level with former Germany striker Miroslav Klose for the most goals (16) scored in World Cup history.

After netting his first goal of the match, Messi was seen wiping away tears, clearly overcome.

Reporters pressed him afterward about the reaction, and he opened up, telling them, "Honestly, [it was] completely unrelated to the sport. I went through some difficult, complicated days."

He continued, crediting those around him for helping him push through. "I'm grateful to the entire delegation, to my teammates," he added. "They were always there for me, as always. They gave me a lot of strength to get through this, and that's all."

His words now carry a different weight. Less than two months after he spoke them, Messi's father passed away.

Jorge died following a private health battle at age 68. In the lead-up to his death, the Messi family had already stepped forward to clarify what he was facing, while also pushing back against rumors swirling around his condition.

"The Messi family informs that Jorge is going through a health-related situation," the family said in a June 18 statement. "At this time, he is under medical care, recovering and evolving favorably given the condition he is experiencing."

"In light of the rumors, speculation, and reports that have circulated in recent hours," the statement continued, "the family would like to express its deep disappointment over the lack of sensitivity, respect, and decency with which some individuals have treated what is strictly a private family matter."

Jorge's bond with his son ran far deeper than most fans realize. He coached at the local Grandoli club, where a young Lionel first played before moving on to Newell's Old Boys.

It was during that period that Lionel was diagnosed with a growth hormone deficiency requiring treatment the family couldn't afford on their own.

Determined to get his son the care he needed, Jorge brought Lionel to Spain, where he managed to convince officials at FC Barcelona to cover the cost of the treatment.

It turned out to be one of the most consequential decisions in soccer history, setting the stage for the player who would go on to become a World Cup champion.

Jorge later became his son's agent, earning a reputation as a steady, respected presence throughout Lionel's career. He is survived by his wife, Celia Cuccittini, their children Lionel, Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, and numerous grandchildren.

Newell's Old Boys honored him in a statement posted to X, translated from Spanish. "Jorge was the pillar and the person who, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini, supported and guided the career of the greatest player of all time with vision, discipline, and affection," the club wrote.

The tribute continued, "His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colors."