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Lionel Messi has taken an indefinite break from football following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, leaving the Argentina captain facing a deeply emotional period in his life.
Jorge played a central role in Messi’s journey from Rosario to becoming one of football’s greatest stars. He was closely involved in his son’s career from the very beginning and remained one of his most trusted figures throughout his professional life.
According to Rosario-based media reports cited by French website Foot Mercato, Messi is currently not in the mental or physical state to think about football or return to the pitch. Goal.com, citing the same report, said Messi has not decided how long he will remain away from the game.
Messi has reportedly requested an indefinite leave of absence from Inter Miami, and the Major League Soccer club has approved his request. The club has told the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner that he can take as much time as he needs. The decision on when to return will be entirely his.
For now, Messi’s priority is his family rather than football.
The condition of Jorge Messi had already been a source of concern for the family during the World Cup period. Several photographs from that time showed the Argentina captain visibly emotional over his father’s health. Following Jorge’s death, Messi has reportedly been devastated.
After attending his father’s funeral, Messi chose to remain close to his loved ones as he tries to cope with the loss. He has not yet decided when he will return to Miami.
His mother, siblings, wife and children are now at the centre of his life as the family attempts to overcome their grief.
The indefinite break has also raised questions about the future of Messi’s illustrious professional career. Argentine media have begun speculating that the 39-year-old could remain away from football for an extended period.
There is no confirmation that Messi is considering retirement, and neither he nor Inter Miami has indicated that he intends to end his career. However, his decision to step away from football indefinitely has opened the door to speculation about what comes next.
For a player who has spent almost his entire life devoted to football, Messi now finds himself at an extraordinary crossroads. After decades of chasing records, trophies and personal milestones, his focus at this difficult moment is simply on family—and on grieving the loss of the man who stood beside him from the very beginning.
