Lionel Messi has ‘quite a few doubts’ about football future after death of his father

Lionel Messi has expressed significant uncertainty about his football future following the passing of his father, Jorge, who died last week at age 68 after battling a prolonged illness at a medical clinic in Rosario, Argentina. In an emotional Instagram tribute, the Paris Saint-Germain forward revealed he is grappling with profound doubts about continuing his professional career, stating "I don't know what I'm going to do without you" and "I have quite a few doubts about whether I'm going to keep doing it for much longer." This marks a pivotal moment for the 36-year-old Argentine legend, who has spent most of his 25-year playing career as one of football's greatest athletes, having won the FIFA World Cup with Argentina in 2022 and earned a record seven Ballon d'Or awards throughout his illustrious career.

Jorge Messi served as his son's manager and confidant throughout Lionel's rise to global stardom, playing a crucial role in navigating the player's transfer from Barcelona to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 and subsequently to Inter Miami in 2023. The relationship between father and son was central to Messi's decision-making processes, both on and off the pitch, with Jorge having managed his career since childhood. Messi currently plays for Major League Soccer's Inter Miami, where he joined last summer on a two-year contract and has already made significant impact, scoring 16 goals in 22 league appearances during the 2024 season while helping the franchise reach the MLS Playoffs and Supporters' Shield contention.

The timing of Messi's statement raises questions about potential retirement plans as the footballer approaches the twilight of his career at an age when most professional athletes begin contemplating their exit from sport. His emotional vulnerability demonstrates the profound personal toll of losing a family member who shaped his entire professional trajectory. Miami and PSG may face roster planning uncertainties, though Messi's current Inter Miami contract extends through the 2025 season, suggesting any immediate career decisions may be deliberated privately before any official announcement regarding his playing future emerges.