Lionel Messi made an emotional return to competitive football for Inter Miami on Wednesday, August 12, just four days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi. The Argentine superstar had traveled to Rosario after his father’s death and had been expected to take time away from football to grieve with his family.
Instead, Messi returned to the pitch at Inter Miami’s crucial Leagues Cup game against Leon. The 39-year-old started the match on the bench before being brought in the second half; an emotional return after one of the most difficult periods of his life.
Jorge Messi died after a long illness on August 8. Not only was he Messi's father, but he was also very much involved in the development of his son’s professional life. Jorge remained close to Messi in his life as Messi’s representative since he was a child in Rosario and he grew into one of football’s greatest players.
Messi returned despite uncertainty over his future
Messi’s return came after reports indicated that he might take an extended or indefinite break from football following his father’s death.
And Messi himself was clearly an uncertain player in an emotional tribute to Jorge. Messi said he had no idea how to do without his father and that he didn’t know if he would be able to keep playing football for much longer.
His comments helped lay bare the personal toll of the loss. Jorge had been there all along Messi’s football journey, with him when he was training, and with him when he became a global soccer star.
Despite those feelings, Messi came back to action only days after the funeral.
Emotional appearance against Leon
Messi was also named among the substitutes for Inter Miami's match against Leon. He entered the game in the second half and tried to help his team change the outcome.
However, the return did not produce the result Inter Miami wanted. Leon defeated the Major League Soccer side 3-2, with Daniel Arcila scoring twice for the Mexican club.
Messi was not able to prevent the defeat, and it was still impressive that he returned to football in a very difficult moment in life.
Messi’s match was not just about playing in the Leagues Cup. It was his first match since losing his father, and he had already admitted to himself how difficult it would be without him.
Jorge Messi’s influence on Lionel’s career
Jorge Messi played an important role in his son’s development from a young footballer in Rosario to an international superstar.
He supported Lionel in the early stages of his career, and he remained involved with his professional affairs for decades. Their relationship was more than football; Messi described his father as his dad, friend, and representative.
Jorge's death was therefore the loss of a close family member as well as a key figure in Messi's professional life.
Messi’s decision to return to the field so soon after the tragedy has been hailed all over the football world. His emotional circumstances add a personal dimension to an otherwise very important Leagues Cup match.
Messi remains part of Inter Miami for now, and his return indicates that he is still going to play football while he grieves his loss. If he is away from football a lot in the next weeks, it will be on his side and his family.
