Lionel Messi has cast fresh doubt on his football future following the death of his father and longtime representative, Jorge Messi.
The 39-year-old Argentina captain disclosed his uncertainty on Wednesday, August 12, 2026, in an emotional tribute to Jorge, who died aged 68 in Rosario on Friday, August 7, after a prolonged illness.
Messi returned to Argentina for his father’s private funeral on Sunday, August 9, before traveling back to the United States, where he plays for Inter Miami.
Jorge was a pivotal figure in Messi’s career, guiding him from his childhood in Rosario through his move to Barcelona and later serving as his representative and adviser.
The loss came weeks after Messi led Argentina to the 2026 FIFA World Cup final. The defending champions lost 1–0 to Spain after extra time on July 19, with Ferran Torres scoring the winner.
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Messi had entered the tournament determined to fulfil his father’s wish to see him play at another World Cup. He later acknowledged struggling physically during the competition and said he had hoped to win the trophy for Jorge.
His latest comments have widened questions that had already surrounded his international future. They do not, however, amount to a retirement announcement.
Messi remains under contract with Inter Miami through the 2028 MLS season.
The uncertainty echoes a previous turning point. After Argentina lost the 2016 Copa América final to Chile, Messi briefly retired from international football before reversing the decision. He subsequently helped Argentina win the 2021 Copa América and the 2022 World Cup in Qatar.
Now, following his father’s death, Messi faces another decision over the final chapter of his career.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has pledged to preserve Jorge’s legacy by passing his father’s values on to his children.
For now, Messi’s next step remains undecided.