Overview
- The Messi family released an official statement Thursday saying Jorge Messi is “going through a health situation,” is under medical supervision and is recovering and progressing favorably.
- Lionel Messi was visibly emotional during Argentina’s 3-0 World Cup win and scored a hat-trick that tied him with Miroslav Klose for the tournament scoring record, a reaction he said came from personal difficulties unrelated to football.
- Unverified reports and social-media rumors circulated widely after the match, including an on-air claim that Jorge had died, which led presenter Florencia Peña to apologize and step down.
- The family asked the public and media for responsibility, prudence and humanity, gave no medical specifics, and said any further updates will come only through the family’s official channels.
- Jorge Messi, 68, has long acted as Lionel’s agent and business manager, and the family’s statement highlights how intense media scrutiny can affect the player and family as Argentina prepares to play Austria on June 22.