Lionel Messi made an emotional return to the pitch for Inter Miami on Wednesday, coming on as a substitute following the death of his father and amid uncertainty over his future in football.
Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, died in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, last week at the age of 68 following a long illness. Jorge had played a major role throughout his son’s career, serving as his agent from the age of 14 and supporting him through his rise to becoming one of football’s greatest players.
The 39-year-old Argentina captain had recently suggested that he was unsure how much longer he would continue playing professionally. In an emotional message, Messi said he was considering his future and admitted he was “really not sure” whether he would continue for much longer.
After attending his father’s private funeral in Argentina on Sunday, Messi returned to the United States and joined Inter Miami for their final Leagues Cup group match against Mexican side Leon.
He entered the game at half-time to a huge reception from the Miami supporters. Despite his return, Inter Miami eventually suffered a 3-2 defeat and were eliminated from the competition at the group stage.
This marked the first time Inter Miami had failed to progress beyond the opening stage of the Leagues Cup since the competition was expanded in 2023. That was also the year Messi joined the club and helped them win the tournament.
Messi had missed Miami’s previous match, a 2-1 defeat against Monterrey, but made himself available for coach Guillermo Hoyos for the crucial encounter with Leon.
Messi's Emotional Connection With His Father
Jorge Messi was much more than an agent to his son. He had been closely involved in Lionel’s football career since his teenage years and remained a constant presence as Messi developed into an international superstar.
He was also there when Messi captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.
Messi revealed that his father had encouraged him to continue playing and compete in another World Cup despite his declining health. Argentina reached the final of this summer’s tournament but lost 1-0 to Spain after extra time.
His father’s influence therefore remains closely connected to one of the most important decisions Messi faces about his playing career.
Teammates Rally Around Messi
Inter Miami midfielder Yannick Bright, who scored his team's second goal against Leon, described Messi’s return as an emotional moment for the squad.
Bright said he and his teammates simply wanted to support their captain during an extremely difficult period.
He admitted that he had not expected Messi to return so quickly but said the decision showed how deeply the Argentina star cared about his team.
Leon coach Javier Gandolfi also praised Messi, describing him as someone who stands apart from others and saying his appearance once again demonstrated his character.
For Messi, however, the night was about much more than football. His return came just days after losing his father and at a time when he is openly considering how much longer he wants to continue his extraordinary career.
With his future still uncertain, Messi’s appearance for Inter Miami provided an emotional reminder of his commitment to the club and the sport that has defined his life.
