Lionel Messi’s story cannot be understood without the constant presence of Jorge Messi, his father and closest confidant. From his early days in Rosario to his rise as a global superstar and captain of the Argentine national team, Jorge took charge of the contractual, commercial, and administrative decisions surrounding the soccer player. Over time, his role expanded beyond that of a father to become the primary manager and negotiator for the former FC Barcelona star.

Jorge Messi: How He Managed Lionel’s Career Since His Arrival at Barcelona

The professional bond between father and son was forged at a very early age. In 2000, they both decided to travel to Catalonia to seek an opportunity with FC Barcelona, in order to secure the medical treatment the young prospect needed.

According to a 2020 report in The New York Times, ever since that first signing agreement was scribbled on a napkin, Jorge has acted not only as a father but also as the chief negotiator and protector of his son’s interests.

Despite the tax fraud charges both faced in 2016—for which they were convicted by a Spanish court—the Rosario star’s father continued to serve as his main source of support. This allowed “Diez” to focus on his performance on the field, while Jorge coordinated deals with global brands and managed the family’s investments.

Jorge Messi: The Day He Denied Lionel’s Contract with Saudi Arabia

In May 2023, amid reports linking La Pulga to an imminent transfer to a Saudi Arabian club, Jorge spoke out publicly to deny any agreement. According to Reuters, the soccer player’s father took to social media to clarify that there was no formal commitment with any Middle Eastern clubs.

“There is absolutely nothing in the works with any club for next year. The decision will never be made before Lionel finishes the league season with PSG,” he stated in an official release. He also emphasized the need to finish the season before evaluating any future offers.

“We can assure you that there’s nothing going on with anyone. Nothing verbal, nothing signed, nothing agreed upon—and there won’t be until the end of the season,” concluded the Argentine captain’s father.

Inter Miami: Jorge Messi’s Role in the Negotiations for Lionel

The transfer of Lionel Scaloni’s star player to Major League Soccer (MLS) was a complex process that spanned three years. According to ABC News, Jorge Mas, managing co-owner of Inter Miami, confirmed that the negotiations involved direct and sustained contact with Messi’s inner circle.

The negotiations included meetings in various cities, such as Barcelona, Miami, Rosario, and Doha, where Mas worked tirelessly to close the deal. While David Beckham focused on the athletic aspects with the player, Jorge led the negotiations on behalf of his son.

In addition, Joan Laporta, president of Barcelona, said he spoke with Jorge to inform him of his intention to bring Lionel back to the Blaugrana team. “We had an agreement with LaLiga to allocate part of our resources to Messi. It was included in the viability plan. We communicated this to Jorge Messi. He told me that Leo had had a very difficult year in Paris and that he wanted less pressure. With our offer, he would have remained under pressure, and I understood his decision,” he explained.

What We Know About Jorge Messi’s Health: The Family’s Statement

After the 3-0 victory over Algeria, in which he scored a hat trick, Leo Messi explained why he broke down in tears after scoring the first goal: “I’ve had a tough few days,” he told the press.

Messi explicó por qué se quebró en llanto tras el primer gol

In that regard, it was reported on Thursday, June 18, that his father, Jorge, is facing a health crisis. In response, his family issued a statement saying: “Jorge is dealing with a health issue. He is currently under medical supervision, recovering, and making favorable progress.”

In addition, they expressed “deep distress” over the “lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter.”

Spanish to English version by Bárbara Santana Vázquez