Messi Returns To Inter Miami After Father’s D**th

Lionel Messi returned to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, as the Argentine star continues to reflect on his future in professional football.

According to Ireporter Online, Messi’s father, who had served as his agent since he was 14, died in Rosario at the age of 68 after a prolonged illness. The Inter Miami forward attended a private funeral in Argentina on Sunday before returning to the United States.

Messi had been absent from Miami’s 2-1 defeat to Monterrey in the Leagues Cup but made himself available for the crucial group-stage encounter against Leon.

The 39-year-old came on at half-time during Miami’s 3-2 defeat to Leon and received a warm reception from supporters at the stadium.

The defeat ended Inter Miami’s hopes of advancing from the opening stage of the competition for the first time since the Leagues Cup was expanded in 2023. That same year, Messi joined the club and inspired the team to the tournament title.

Before returning to club action, Messi opened up about his emotional state following his father’s death, admitting that he was uncertain about continuing his football career for much longer.

Jorge played a significant role throughout Messi’s career, guiding his son from his early days in football and witnessing his rise to global stardom. He was also present during some of Messi’s biggest achievements, including Argentina’s 2022 World Cup triumph.

Messi revealed that his father had encouraged him to participate in another World Cup despite his deteriorating health. Argentina eventually reached the 2026 final but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.

Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright said Messi’s return surprised members of the squad, adding that the team wanted to support their captain during the difficult period.

Bright described Messi’s decision to play despite his personal circumstances as a reflection of how much he cares about the team.

Leon manager Javier Gandolfi also praised Messi after the match, describing the Argentine as a unique individual who once again demonstrated his character despite the emotional circumstances surrounding his return.

Messi’s latest appearance comes at a difficult moment in his career, with questions now surrounding how long the football icon intends to continue playing at the highest level.