Messi's Dad Recovering, Family Responds to Health Rumors

The family of Lionel Messi, the captain of Argentina, confirmed on Thursday that his father, Jorge Messi, is facing a health issue. They also criticized what they called insensitive media speculation about his condition.

In a statement to ESPN, the family said Jorge, who is also Messi’s long-time agent and business manager, is "currently under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing."

This statement came two days after Messi was seen emotional on the pitch after scoring his first goal in Argentina’s World Cup opener against Algeria. This moment sparked a lot of talk about his father's health.

The family expressed that they are "deeply concerned" about how some people have handled the situation in recent hours. They said, "In light of the reports, rumors, and speculation that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep concern regarding the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some individuals have treated a strictly private family matter."

They also rejected reports that did not come from their official sources. The family stated that only Jorge’s close relatives know the true details of his health.

They added, "The family would also like to clarify that only Jorge’s immediate family has real and accurate information regarding his condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful."

The family asked for "responsibility, prudence, and humanity" from the public, stressing that a person's health "should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media attention." They thanked fans and well-wishers for their support.

They said, "We ask that Jorge’s privacy, confidentiality, and personal space, as well as that of his entire family, be respected throughout this process. Any relevant updates will be communicated in due course by the family and through the appropriate channels."

Earlier, Messi told reporters that his emotional reaction after scoring was not related to football.

He shared, "I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength."

Argentine media, including Radio Mitre’s Eduardo Feinmann, had linked Messi’s tears to his father’s health issues. They reported that Jorge had faced health problems for several months and had a setback just days before the match.