The family of Argentina captain, Lionel Messi, on Thursday confirmed that his father, Jorge Messi, is currently dealing with a health issue, while criticising what it described as insensitive media speculation around his condition.
In a statement sent to ESPN, the family said Jorge, who also serves as Messi’s long-time agent and business manager, is “currently under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.”
The statement comes two days after Messi was seen visibly emotional on the pitch following his first goal in Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria, a moment that fuelled widespread speculation about his father’s health.
Addressing the rumours, the family said it was “deeply concerned” about how the matter had been handled by some in recent hours.
“”In light of the reports, rumors, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some individuals have treated a strictly private family matter,” the statement read.
The family also dismissed reports not originating from its official channels, insisting only Jorge’s immediate relatives have accurate knowledge of his condition.
“The family would also like to clarify that only Jorge’s immediate family has real and accurate information regarding his condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful,” it added.
The statement appealed for “responsibility, prudence, and humanity,” noting that a person’s health “should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media attention,” while thanking fans and well-wishers for messages of support.
“We ask that Jorge’s privacy, confidentiality, and personal space — as well as that of his entire family — be respected throughout this process. Any relevant updates will be communicated in due course by the family and through the appropriate channels,” the family said.
Messi had earlier told reporters that his emotional reaction after scoring was unconnected to football.
“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength,” he said.
Argentine media, including Radio Mitre’s Eduardo Feinmann, had earlier linked Messi’s tears to his father’s deteriorating health, reporting that Jorge had battled health complications for several months and suffered a setback in the days leading up to the match.
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