Father of soccer star Lionel Messi dies at 68 in Argentina

 (Reuters) - Jorge Messi, the father of soccer star Lionel Messi, died on Friday night at the age ​of 68 at a medical clinic in the ‌Argentine city of Rosario after a long illness, the Argentine footballer's family confirmed to Reuters.

Jorge spent his final months alternating between a medical ​center in Rosario and his home, accompanied by ​his wife Celia and his children Rodrigo, Matías and ⁠María Sol, the family said.

Lionel Messi spent time with ​his father after the World Cup before rejoining his club, ​Inter Miami, for whom he returned to action a week ago.

Jorge closely accompanied his son Lionel throughout his career, beginning with his early ​years at Barcelona. He acted as a crucial pillar of ​support and, for several years, served as his representative.

"I always needed my ‌dad's ⁠approval, ever since I was a kid. After every match, I'd ask him what he thought of how I played," the global soccer star said previously.

During the World Cup, ​the captain of ​the Argentine ⁠national team experienced mixed emotions after scoring a hat trick in the opening match against ​Algeria, breaking down in tears while celebrating his ​first ⁠goal.

Later, at a press conference, Lionel explained that his tears were due to "something unrelated to football" after going through "a few difficult, ⁠complicated ​days."

Days later, the family issued a ​statement regarding Jorge's "health situation", informing the public that he was undergoing medical treatment.