Messi Casts Doubt on Playing Future After Father’s Death

Argentina and Inter Miami superstar Lionel Messi has cast fresh doubt on his football future, saying he is unsure whether he will continue playing for much longer following the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

The 39-year-old made the emotional revelation in a social media tribute to his father, who died aged 68 after a period of health problems. Messi described the loss as deeply painful and acknowledged that it had left him questioning what comes next in his life and career.

In his tribute, Messi said he was struggling to imagine life without his father, who had been a central figure throughout his career. Jorge Messi served not only as his father but also as his longtime agent and adviser.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you,” Messi wrote, according to reports. He also revealed that he had begun having serious doubts about continuing his football career for much longer.

Jorge Messi was one of the most influential people in his son’s rise from a young footballer in Rosario, Argentina, to one of the greatest players in football history.

He managed Messi’s career for much of his professional life and was involved in key decisions surrounding his move to Barcelona as a teenager.

Messi’s latest tribute reflected the depth of their relationship, with the footballer remembering his father as a mentor, friend and constant source of support.

The loss comes shortly after the 2026 FIFA World Cup, during which Messi helped Argentina reach the final. Reports indicate that Jorge’s health had deteriorated around the tournament, making the competition particularly difficult for his son.

Despite his emotional comments, Messi has not announced his retirement from professional football.

His words instead suggest that he is reconsidering how much longer he wants to continue playing at the highest level following a devastating personal loss.

Messi remains contracted to Inter Miami, where he has continued his career in Major League Soccer after leaving European football.

The Argentine star has already achieved virtually every major honour available to him, including the FIFA World Cup, Copa América, multiple Champions League titles and a record number of Ballon d’Or awards.

His latest comments have therefore triggered renewed speculation that the legendary forward could be approaching the final stage of his playing career.

For now, however, Messi’s focus appears to be on grieving the loss of his father and spending time with his family before making any decision about his future.