Lionel Messi dad was 68, sick during World Cup

Lionel Messi's dad, Jorge Messi, has died, according to multiple reports.

He was 68 years old.

Jorge Messi had been dealing with a health-related issue, with the Argentina star slamming inaccurate reports during the FIFA World Cup about his father's health and asking for his family's privacy to be respected.

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

In Argentina's first World Cup game against Algeria, Messi had tears coming to his eyes after scoring the first of three goals during the match.

Newell's Old Boys, one of Argentina's top club teams and where Lionel Messi spent part of his youth career (1995-2000), released a statement Saturday morning on X.

"Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigor, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.

"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."

Messi has yet to confirm whether he will retire from professional soccer anytime soon. Argentina Football Association president Claudio "Chiqui" Tapia said on Friday, Aug. 7 the 39-year-old's international future is entirely up to him.

Messi scored eight goals in eight matches at the World Cup, finishing runner-up to Kylian Mbappe in the Golden Boot race.

This story will be updated

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