Football NewsBBC SportUnverified source· 13 Aug 2026
Messi returns after father's death, hints at retirement
Eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Lionel Messi played for Inter Miami just days after burying his father, casting doubt on his future.


L. Messi
player
Match
Inter Miami 2-3 Leon
Competition
Leagues Cup
Appearance
Substitute at half-time
Father
Jorge, died at 68 in Rosario
What happened. Lionel Messi came on as a substitute for Inter Miami in their 3-2 Leagues Cup loss to Leon, days after his father's death, and hinted he may retire soon.
- Messi's father Jorge passed away last week after a long illness.
- Messi attended the funeral in Argentina on Sunday before flying back.
- He said he's 'really not sure' about continuing football much longer.
“really not sure if I'll carry on doing it for much longer”
— Lionel Messi
Messi's father urged him to play one last World Cup, but his future now looks uncertain.
In this story
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Lionel Messi plays first game for Inter Miami since father's death... after devastated star hinted he could QUIT soccer in emotional tribute

BBC Sport
Messi misses Miami defeat after death of father

Daily Mail Football
Lionel Messi lands back in Rosario after father Jorge's death at 68... as Inter Miami teammate pays heartfelt tribute during game
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