Messi plays in Inter Miami defeat by Leon only hours after retirement hint

Lionel Messi played for Inter Miami in their 3-2 Leagues Cup defeat to Leon, just hours after hinting at retirement on social media. Messi returned to Florida on Tuesday night following his father's funeral on Sunday and came on at halftime. He had posted an emotional tribute to his father, stating he had serious doubts about continuing his football career. Despite Messi's availability for the crucial match, Leon secured a comeback victory, becoming the first team to reach the quarterfinals. Teammates expressed admiration for Messi's commitment during his difficult personal time.

Lionel Messi posted a tribute to his late father, Jorge, on Instagram, expressing profound grief and uncertainty about his future in soccer. Jorge Messi, who was instrumental in his son's career as his agent, passed away at 68. Lionel Messi revealed that his father's declining health before the World Cup, where Argentina finished as runner-up, deeply affected him. He stated he doesn't know how to continue without his father and has serious doubts about playing much longer, having felt physically and emotionally drained during the tournament. Messages of support have been sent to the Messi family, and Lionel Messi missed Inter Miami's recent match while in Argentina.

Lionel Messi, the 39-year-old Argentina superstar, has indicated he may retire from football soon following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. Messi, who recently played in the 2026 World Cup final loss to Spain, expressed his doubts about continuing his career in an Instagram post. He revealed his father's passing, at age 68, has deeply affected him, impacting his ability to play. Messi's father, who also served as his agent, had been ill for some time, and his absence from the World Cup was noted. Despite being under contract with Inter Miami until 2028, Messi's future in the sport is now uncertain due to this personal tragedy.