Messi’s father recovering, family slams speculation over health condition

The family of football superstar Lionel Messi has confirmed that his father, Jorge Messi, is currently dealing with a health matter. They issued a statement to ESPN on Thursday, emphasizing that Jorge is "under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably."

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currently under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.

The family's announcement followed widespread speculation about Jorge Messi's health, particularly after Lionel Messi appeared visibly emotional on the pitch after scoring in Argentina's World Cup opener against Algeria. This moment fueled rumors that his father's condition had deteriorated.

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In light of the reports, rumors, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some individuals have treated a strictly private family matter.

In their statement, the Messi family expressed "deep concern regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion" shown by some media outlets and individuals. They stressed that the matter is strictly private and that only immediate family members have accurate knowledge of Jorge's condition. The family urged the public and media to disregard any information not directly released through their official channels.

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The family would also like to clarify that only Jorge’s immediate family has real and accurate information regarding his condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful.

Appealing for "responsibility, prudence, and humanity," the family requested that Jorge Messi's privacy and personal space, along with that of his entire family, be respected during this time. They assured that any relevant updates would be communicated by the family in due course. Lionel Messi himself had previously alluded to facing "difficult days" before the match, thanking his teammates for their support.

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We ask that Jorge’s privacy, confidentiality, and personal space, as well as that of his entire family, be respected throughout this process. Any relevant updates will be communicated in due course by the family and through the appropriate channels.