Messi uncertain over future after father's death

Lionel Messi has admitted he is not certain to play football for much longer, days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The Argentine captain's remarks have sent ripples through the sporting world, with fans and pundits alike speculating about the end of an era.

In an emotional Instagram post, the 39-year-old paid tribute to his late father, crediting him for the trajectory of his career. The post, which drew millions of likes within hours, was accompanied by a series of photographs showing the father-son duo over the years.

A career shaped by a father's influence

Jorge Messi was more than a parent to the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner. He was the driving force behind his son's rise from a young prodigy in Rosario to the pinnacle of world football. From negotiating his first contracts at Barcelona to managing his affairs during the peak of his career, Jorge's presence loomed large over Lionel's professional life.

In the tribute, Messi wrote that his father was "the reason I am where I am today". He described Jorge as his "greatest supporter" and acknowledged the sacrifices made by the family to nurture his talent, including the move to Spain as a teenager to join Barcelona's famed La Masia academy.

Doubts over the road ahead

According to sources close to the player, Messi has "quite a few doubts" about his future in the sport. The emotional weight of losing his father, who was also his longtime agent, has reportedly left him questioning how much longer he can continue at the highest level.

This is not the first time Messi has hinted at retirement. In 2024, after leading Argentina to a Copa America title, he spoke of the tournament being "the last dance". Yet he continued, driven by a love for the game that his father helped instil. Now, with Jorge gone, that motivation appears to be wavering.

Outpouring of support from the football community

The football world has rallied around Messi in his time of grief. His long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo was among the first to respond publicly, posting a supportive message on social media. The gesture, seen as a rare moment of solidarity between the two legends, was widely shared and commented upon.

• Former teammates at Barcelona, including Xavi and Iniesta, sent condolences.
• Clubs where Messi has played, including Inter Miami and PSG, issued statements of support.
• Fans around the globe have left tributes outside stadiums and on social media platforms.

Argentina's football association also expressed its sympathies, with coach Lionel Scaloni saying the team stands with Messi during this difficult period. The national side's next fixtures, scheduled for September, remain uncertain as Messi's participation is now in doubt.

What lies ahead for the legend

Messi's current contract with Inter Miami runs until the end of 2026, with an option for an additional year. Club officials have not yet commented on the situation, but sources suggest they are prepared to give the player all the time he needs to decide his future.

The 2026 World Cup, to be held in North America, was widely expected to be Messi's swansong on the international stage. Whether he will feature in that tournament now hangs in the balance, dependent on his emotional and mental state in the coming months.

For now, Messi has asked for privacy as he mourns. His father's funeral was held in Rosario earlier this week, attended by close family and friends. The coming weeks will be crucial in determining whether the greatest footballer of his generation chooses to hang up his boots or find the strength to carry on.

As the football community waits, one thing remains clear: Jorge Messi's legacy is etched not just in his son's achievements, but in the very fabric of the sport. The next chapter, whether on the pitch or off it, will be written in his memory.