Messi misses Miami defeat after death of father

What the report says

Lionel Messi missed Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Monterrey on Saturday after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, BBC Sport Football reported. Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 after a long illness in Rosario, Argentina. Messi had travelled to Argentina following the news, while Inter Miami went on to lose 2-1 in the tournament match at Nu Stadium.

Inter Miami and figures around football paid tribute before, during and after the game. The club observed a minute’s silence, players wore black armbands and Jorge Messi’s name appeared on the stadium screens. Inter Miami also posted a message of support for Messi and his family. Supporters held signs for the Argentina captain, and team-mate Rodrigo de Paul marked his goal by revealing Messi’s name on his shirt.

The report also noted wider tributes from clubs and organizations connected to Messi’s career. Barcelona, where he rose to global prominence, held a moment of silence, and thanked Jorge Messi for helping shape the start of his son’s career there. The Argentine Football Association, Paris St-Germain, and major Argentine clubs also offered condolences. Jorge Messi had been his son’s agent since Lionel was 14, making him a central figure in the forward’s football journey.