Jorge Messi, the father and agent of football legend Lionel Messi, has passed away at the age of 68. While he was not the creator of Lionel's raw talent, Jorge was the cornerstone who recognized his son's extraordinary gifts early on, believed in him, and dedicated his life to protecting and cultivating his career.
Working at the Acindar steel mill in Rosario, Jorge had a deep connection with football and coached at Grandoli, where Lionel took his first steps on the pitch. When Messi was 13, he required growth hormone treatments costing approximately $900 per month. Although Jorge held a managerial role at Acindar, sustaining these payments was difficult, and Newell's Old Boys could not cover the full expenses.
Understanding that his son needed a bigger stage, Jorge arranged a two-week trial at FC Barcelona in 2000, ultimately securing the famous contract written on a paper napkin. In 2001, after moving to Barcelona, Jorge stayed behind in a small Les Corts apartment with Lionel while the rest of the family returned to Rosario. Serving as his agent, trusted advisor, and lifelong protector, Jorge built the foundation that allowed Lionel Messi to become one of the greatest players in football history.