Lionel Messi returned to action for Inter Miami in a Leagues Cup match following the recent death of his father, Jorge, who passed away in Rosario, Argentina at age 68 after an extended illness. The 39-year-old Argentine forward had been absent from competition to attend a private funeral on Sunday. Upon his return to the United States, Messi came off the bench at halftime during Miami’s 3-2 loss to Leon, a result that eliminated the club from the tournament’s initial phase.
In a social media statement, Messi expressed uncertainty about his future in professional football, stating he was unsure whether he would continue playing for much longer. He noted that his father had encouraged him to participate in one additional World Cup despite his deteriorating health. Jorge had served as Messi’s agent since he was 14 years old and was present throughout his career, including during Argentina’s World Cup victory in 2022. Argentina subsequently reached the final of the most recent continental tournament but fell to Spain 1-0 in extra time.
Messi’s appearance marked the first time he had made himself available since attending the funeral. Miami had previously lost to Monterrey 2-1 in a Leagues Cup fixture but selected the must-win match against Leon as an opportunity for Messi’s return. The elimination represents the first opening-phase exit for the club in the Leagues Cup since the competition expanded in 2023, the same year Messi arrived and the team won the trophy.
Teammates and opposing personnel responded to Messi’s return with expressions of support. Midfielder Yannick Bright, who scored Miami’s second goal, described the moment as incredible and pledged to give maximum effort for his captain. Leon coach Javier Gandolfi praised Messi’s character, describing him as a unique human being who once again demonstrated his character through his actions.
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