Jorge Messi, the father of Argentine football star Lionel Messi, has died at the age of 68 at a hospital in Rosario, Argentina, following an illness.

Axar.az reports, citing Daily Sports, that Jorge Messi was a central figure in his son’s career, accompanying him from his early days in football through his rise to becoming one of the greatest players in the history of the sport.

He represented Lionel Messi and handled negotiations with football clubs and commercial companies, while also helping build the business infrastructure surrounding the Argentine star.

Jorge Messi’s health had deteriorated in recent years. At the 2022 World Cup, Lionel Messi reportedly hinted that he was going through a difficult personal period.