Argentina mourns with its greatest son. Lionel Messi returned to his hometown to bid farewell to his father Jorge, while Rodrigo De Paul scored in an Inter Miami shirt and dedicated it to the captain.
Inter Miami captain Lionel Messi arrived in his hometown of Rosario on Sunday for the final farewell to his father, Jorge Messi, who passed away on Saturday at the age of 69. The news of the death of the man who served as his manager and closest confidant for years has deeply shaken the football world, especially Argentina.
According to Argentine media reports, Messi headed straight to El Prado Cemetery upon his arrival in the city. The final farewell is being held in the tightest circle of family and close friends, away from the public eye. Jorge Messi played an invaluable role in his son's career, acting as his representative and one of his most trusted people from the very beginning.
Due to the family tragedy, Messi did not feature in the League Cup group-stage match in which his Inter Miami lost 2-1 to Mexico's Monterrey. However, the game was marked by a touching moment in the 32nd minute. Argentine international Rodrigo De Paul gave his team the lead with an assist from Brazilian Casemiro, but he replaced the celebration with a powerful gesture.
De Paul pulled on the number 10 jersey, the one worn by Messi himself, and pointed to the number on his back. With that act, he sent a clear message of support to his longtime national teammate and his family during these difficult times.
The Argentine Football Association (AFA) has officially expressed its condolences to the Messi family and decided on a series of tributes. All matches in every tier of Argentine football will begin with a minute of silence, and players, referees, and coaching staff will wear black armbands. Additionally, national flags at AFA facilities will be flown at half-mast until August 14.
