Lionel Messi has cast severe uncertainty over his professional playing career following the tragic passing of his father, Jorge Messi.

In an emotional tribute shared on Instagram, the 39-year-old Argentina captain admitted that he is unsure if he will continue playing football. Jorge Messi, who served as Lionel’s primary manager, representative, and career advisor for over two decades, passed away following a brief illness.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you,” Messi wrote in his message. “I don’t know how to move forward. All I ever did was play football, and now I have serious doubts about whether I’m going to keep doing it for much longer.”

A career shaped together

Throughout his legendary rise from Rosario to Barcelona, Paris, and Inter Miami, Messi worked alongside his father. Jorge negotiated every major professional contract and managed his son’s off-field affairs. Consequently, Messi emphasized how difficult it feels to finish his journey alone.

“You were by my side from the beginning,” Messi added. “There was so little left until the end. Why couldn’t you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together?”

Furthermore, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner revealed the severe emotional and physical toll he experienced during the 2026 World Cup. He noted that playing in the tournament was his father’s final wish. However, Jorge’s health worsened shortly before kickoff, preventing him from traveling to watch the matches in person.

Messi confessed that attempting to focus on matches while worrying about his father’s condition pushed him past his physical limits during Argentina’s tournament run.

“My legs couldn’t go on anymore,” he shared candidly. “This time I tried to push myself beyond my physical limits, but I couldn’t.”

Despite the severe emotional strain, Messi led Argentina through to the tournament’s final.

Indefinite leave from Inter Miami

Following the tragic news, Inter Miami granted Messi an indefinite leave of absence. The Major League Soccer club allowed him to return home to Argentina to be with his grieving family during this painful period.

Although Messi remains under contract with the American side through 2028, club executives emphasized that family comes first.

Therefore, officials have set no return date for his potential comeback to competitive action in MLS.

Meanwhile, players, managers, and football federations across the world have sent heartfelt condolences.

Organisations including FIFA, CONMEBOL, and Barcelona posted public messages of support.

 Supporters everywhere continue to share tributes online to honor Jorge’s lasting legacy and support the Argentine superstar.

The end of an unprecedented partnership

Ultimately, Messi concluded his moving message by thanking his father for his lifelong dedication, guidance, and personal sacrifices.

“Thank you for everything you built for us,” Messi wrote. “I miss you so much already, Pa.”

For now, the entire football world waits in silence.

Fans around the globe wonder whether the legendary forward will return to the pitch or officially close the curtain on his extraordinary career.