The family of Lionel Messi have revealed the footballer’s father, Jorge, has been experiencing a health issue, but is ‘progressing favourably’ under medical supervision.
The nature of Jorge’s illness remains uncertain and the 68-year-old’s loved ones have called for the rumours and speculation surrounding his condition to stop.
Argentina got their World Cup defence off to a dream start on Wednesday and Jorge’s 38-year-old son took centre-stage in what is his sixth global finals, completing a stunning hat-trick in a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Algeria.
But Messi, widely considered to be among the finest players in football history, was pictured wiping away tears with his shirt after his opening strike in the 17th minute at Kansas’ Arrowhead Stadium.
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Argentina head coach Lionel Scaloni also appeared close to tears as he shared an embrace with Messi when Nico Paz came on to replace the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner in the 80th minute.
Asked why he was he was so emotional shortly after the final whistle, Messi replied: ‘Honestly, it’s completely unrelated to the sport.
‘I went through some difficult, complicated days.
‘I’m grateful to the entire delegation, to my team-mates. They were always there for me, as always. They gave me a lot of strength to get through this, and that’s all.’
The legendary Inter Miami attacker later added: ‘Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football.
‘I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates.
‘They were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it.’
Messi’s cryptic answers only led to further speculation in his native Argentina, and the family made the move to issue a statement this evening, in which they called for ‘compassion’ at their difficult time.
It was stressed that any significant updates or developments would be ‘communicated promptly’ through the ‘appropriate channels’.
‘Given the versions, rumours, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep displeasure at the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family matter,’ the statement sent to ESPN read.
‘The family also wishes to clarify that only his closest family members have accurate and reliable information about Jorge’s condition.
‘Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its official channels should not be considered valid or true.
‘At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and compassion.
‘A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be subject to speculation or irresponsible media interest.
‘We sincerely appreciate the expressions of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be respected during this process.’
The statement concluded: ‘Any relevant updates will be communicated promptly by the family and through the appropriate channels.’
Jorge has played a central role in his son’s illustrious career, having served as his agent and business manager since the footballer was in his teens.
He even coached Messi at their local side Grandoli before the iconic forward went on to join Newell’s Old Boys in 1995.
Messi’s Argentina – who defeated France to lift the World Cup four years ago – return to action at this summer’s tournament against Austria next Monday.
The holders then wrap up their Group J campaign versus Jordan on June 28.
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