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Messi hints at retirement following father's death
Published : Thursday, 13 August, 2026 at 1:23 PM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
Argentine superstar Lionel Messi has hinted at retiring from football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi.
The 39-year-old forward expressed deep grief after his father passed away last week at the age of 68. Shortly after losing the World Cup final to Spain, Messi broke his silence regarding his future career.
In an emotional message on social media, Messi wrote about his grief. He questioned how he would move forward without his father and expressed serious doubts about continuing to play football for much longer.
Messi remains under contract with Major League Soccer club Inter Miami through the 2028 season. In his post, he recalled his father's final months, which coincided with the 2026 World Cup.
Messi shared that he repeatedly told his father they would reach the final so he could attend. He returned to the United States on Tuesday night after attending the funeral on Sunday.
He mentioned reaching the final but regretted that his father could not be present. Messi stated he wanted to win the trophy for his father, but his legs could not go any further.
Speaking for the first time about his international career since the 1-0 loss to Spain in New Jersey, Messi said he tried to push past his physical limits. He added that he never felt comfortable on the pitch.
Messi highlighted the vital role his father played throughout his life and career. He described him as a father, friend, and agent who always fulfilled every role perfectly.
Jorge Messi's absence during the World Cup in June had drawn public attention. Amid growing health rumors, the family had requested privacy from the media.
Messi broke down in tears after scoring against Algeria in a group stage match. At the time, he admitted to struggling mentally with off-field issues.
The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner bade a final farewell to his father on Sunday in Perez, near Rosario, surrounded by family and Argentina teammates.
While no official cause of death was announced, local media reported that Jorge Messi suffered from cancer.
-SA
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, E-mail: [email protected], [email protected] Online: email: [email protected] 41053014; 01550707297 Advertisement: 01550707296
