Jorge Messi, the father of Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 at a medical clinic in the Argentine city of Rosario after a long illness, the Argentine footballer's family has confirmed. Jorge spent his final months alternating between a medical centre in Rosario and his home, accompanied by his ⁠wife Celia and his ​children ⁠Rodrigo, Matias and Maria Sol, the family said.Lionel Messi spent time with his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, Inter Miami, for whom he returned to action a week ago. Jorge closely accompanied his son Lionel throughout his career, beginning with his early ‌years at Barcelona. He acted as ‌a crucial pillar of support and, for several years, served as his representative."I always needed my dad's approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I'd ask him what he thought of how I played," the Argentina captain said previously. During the World Cup, Messi experienced mixed emotions after scoring a hat trick in the opening ‌match against Algeria, breaking down in tears ​while celebrating his first goal.Later, at a press conference, Lionel explained that his tears were due to "something unrelated to football" after going through "a few difficult, complicated days." Days later, the family ‌issued a statement ​regarding Jorge's "health situation", informing ‌the public that he was ​undergoing medical treatment. Newell’s Old Boys, Messi’s first side, posted a tribute to a fan of the Buenos Aires club.“Club Atletico Newell's Old Boys bids farewell with deep sorrow and grief to Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in the city of Rosario,” it said in a statement.“Recognised leproso fan, businessman, and father of the Argentine national team captain, Lionel Andrés Messi.“Jorge was the pillar and the person who supported with vision, rigour, and affection the career of the greatest player of all time alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.“His constant companionship and behind-the-scenes leadership were essential in backing every step of Lionel, from his beginnings at Malvinas to the pinnacle of world football glory. Thank you for teaching him to love these colours.”Reuters