Lionel Messi arrives in Rosario for his father's funeral

Jorge Messi died in a clinic in Rosario on Friday night to Saturday. The cause of death has not been communicated. Messi, his partner Antonela Rocuzzo, and their children arrived on a private plane from the United States and were seen in a van escorted by police cars after landing.

The funeral service will be a private family affair held on Sunday in Pérez, a town near Rosario. The Argentine Football Association and FC Barcelona, where Messi began his career at 13, have extended their condolences. FC Barcelona acknowledged Jorge Messi's commitment to the club for entrusting them with his son's career.

At Inter Miami, where Messi plays since 2023, his teammates wore black armbands during their match against Monterrey, which they lost 2-1. Rodrigo de Paul, who scored Miami's goal, showed support for Messi by displaying a number 10 jersey. Jorge Messi played a crucial role in his son's career, serving as his first coach, moving with him to Spain, and later becoming his agent.

He was a metallurgist in Rosario and coached youth teams at the Grandoli club. His life changed in 2000 when FC Barcelona invited 13-year-old Lionel to Spain for growth hormone treatment. Jorge left his job and family in Argentina to accompany Lionel.

Jorge Messi also negotiated his son's contracts with FC Barcelona, Paris Saint-Germain, and Inter Miami. He had previo