Messi returns to Rosario to bid final farewell to father Jorge Messi

Lionel Messi has returned to his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, following the death of his father Jorge Messi to pay his final respects and support his family.

Messi left Fort Lauderdale, Florida, on Wednesday morning and arrived in Rosario shortly after 8:00pm following the long journey. 

He is expected to remain with his family, particularly his mother, Celia, during the mourning period.

Jorge Messi’s funeral arrangements are being kept private and will be attended by family members and close friends. However, fans gathered outside a Rosario cemetery after news of his death spread, offering their support to the Lionel Messi family.

Tributes have also poured in from across the football world, with Barcelona, Real Madrid, Rosario Central and Newell’s Old Boys among the clubs expressing condolences.

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Jorge played a major role in Messi’s football career, supporting his son from childhood and throughout his rise to global stardom.

Messi is expected to return to Miami after the funeral, with Inter Miami giving him time to remain with his family during the difficult period.