Jorge Messi, father and lifelong mentor to Lionel, dies

Jorge Messi, the father, trainer, representative, and confidant of football superstar Lionel Messi, passed away on Saturday. He was instrumental in shaping Lionel's career from his earliest days, fostering an unbreakable bond that strengthened as they navigated life and professional challenges together.

Jorge Messi, who worked as a steel factory supervisor and a builder, also laid the foundation for his son's remarkable career. He was the primary advocate for a 13-year-old Lionel to try out for Barcelona in Spain. This move, initiated by Jorge, cemented a profound father-son relationship that went beyond managing contracts and finances; it was a strategic partnership built on mutual trust and shared ambition.

The journey to Barcelona began in July 2000. At 13, Lionel was undergoing treatment for a growth hormone deficiency, requiring nightly injections. Jorge and Lionel traveled to Spain for a trial, a trip that marked a significant turning point. Barcelona not only offered Lionel a place in their famed La Masia academy but also helped finance his medical treatment, a testament to their early commitment.

Before Barcelona, Jorge coached Lionel's youth team at Grandoli, a local club. Facing financial difficulties that made Lionel's medical treatment a burden, the family saw Barcelona as their best hope. Their arrival in Europe was met with uncertainty; they were not greeted with fanfare but had to navigate the process with Fabián Soldini, their representative at the time. The trial period extended longer than anticipated, during which Lionel trained with Barcelona's youth teams while Jorge and Soldini observed from the sidelines.