Argentina star Messi not certain to play ‘much longer’ after father’s death

What the report says

Lionel Messi has signaled that he may be nearing the end of his playing career following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, Al Jazeera reported on 12 August 2026. In a post on X, the 39-year-old Argentina captain said he had doubts about continuing in football for much longer after his father died on 8 August. The report says Jorge Messi, who was also his son’s agent, was 68. Messi’s comments came after Argentina’s 1-0 loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final in New Jersey, a result that ended the team’s bid to defend its 2022 title.

According to Al Jazeera, Messi had returned to domestic football with Inter Miami after the final, but cut short his comeback because of the family death. He is under contract with the MLS club through the end of the 2028 season, though his latest remarks have added to speculation about retirement. The article also notes that Messi said he tried to push through physical limits during the tournament but did not feel right, and that the final months of his father’s life overlapped with the World Cup.

The publisher said Messi described his father as a central figure in his life and career, calling him a father, friend and agent. Jorge Messi’s absence from the tournament had already drawn attention amid reports about his health. The story provides important context for a player widely viewed as one of football’s greatest figures, while also showing how personal loss has affected his immediate future in the sport.