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Lionel Messi unsure of football future following death of his father Jorge

Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his football future following the death of his father and longtime manager, Jorge Messi, at the age of 68.

Lionel Messi unsure of football future following death of his father Jorge
Lionel Messi unsure of football future following death of his father Jorge

Lionel Messi's Football Future Uncertain After Father's Death

Lionel Messi has expressed doubts about continuing his football career following the death of his father, Jorge. The 39-year-old Argentina captain posted an emotional tribute on social media, stating that he is unsure how much longer he will play football. Jorge Messi passed away last week at the age of 68 after a long illness. Messi's father had been his agent and business manager since he was 14 and played a significant role in his son's career. The two were extremely close, and Jorge accompanied Messi to Spain when he was 13 for a trial at Barcelona, which ultimately led to his move to the club's La Masia youth academy. Throughout Messi's career, Jorge was a constant presence, attending every match and providing support and guidance. In his tribute, Messi wrote, "I don't know what I'm going to do without you. I don't know how to carry on. I only played football, and now I have quite a few doubts about whether I'm going to keep doing it for much longer." He also expressed his desire to have finished his career with his father by his side, saying, "You were by my side from the beginning; there was so little left until the end. Why couldn't you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together?" Messi's emotional statement comes after a difficult few weeks, during which he played in the World Cup despite his father's illness. He revealed that one of the reasons he played in the tournament was because it was his father's wish. Despite his efforts, Argentina finished as runners-up to Spain after an extra-time loss in the final. Messi said he wanted to win the final for his father but had no energy left to bring home a second World Cup title. The news of Messi's doubts about his future has sent shockwaves through the football world. His long-term rival, Cristiano Ronaldo, posted a message of condolence on Instagram, saying, "A huge hug to you and your loved ones during these difficult times, Leo. Stay strong." As Messi navigates this difficult period, he has pledged to honor his father's memory through parenting his own children. He said, "I'm going to miss you so much, but you will always be present, especially in the upbringing of my children, because I will teach them and raise them the way you raised me." This commitment to his family and his father's legacy may provide some comfort and direction for Messi as he considers his next steps. The football world will be watching with interest to see how Messi's situation develops. While it is unclear what the future holds for the Argentine captain, one thing is certain – his father's passing has left a significant void in his life, and it will take time for him to come to terms with the loss. As Messi himself said, "I don't know what I'm going to do without you." Only time will tell what the future holds for this football legend. In the midst of this uncertainty, Messi's fans and supporters can only offer their condolences and support. The outpouring of tributes and messages of condolence from the football community is proof of the impact that Jorge Messi had on his son's career and life. As the football world waits with bated breath to see what the future holds for Lionel Messi, one thing is clear – his father's legacy will live on through him, and his memory will continue to inspire and motivate him, both on and off the pitch.
Reporting based on coverage by ca.sports.yahoo.com. Additional source material: ca.sports.yahoo.com, nytimes.com, tribalfootball.com, onmanorama.com, bbc.com.

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