Lionel Messi returned to the pitch for Inter Miami on Wednesday, just days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi, but his latest appearance came amid growing uncertainty over how much longer he intends to continue his playing career.
The 39-year-old Argentina captain came on at half-time in Miami’s 3-2 defeat to Mexican side Leon in the final group match of the Leagues Cup.
Messi’s return was met with a huge reception from supporters, having missed Miami’s previous 2-1 defeat to Monterrey on Saturday to attend his father’s funeral in Argentina.
His father, who died in Rosario at the age of 68 following a long illness, had been a central figure throughout Messi’s football career and served as his agent from the time the player was 14.
Following Jorge Messi’s death, the Inter Miami forward revealed that he was reflecting on his future in football.
Messi said in an emotional social media message that he was “really not sure” whether he would continue playing for much longer, adding further uncertainty over his plans beyond the current phase of his career.
Despite his personal loss, Messi travelled back to the United States after the private funeral on Sunday and made himself available for Miami’s decisive Leagues Cup fixture.
His appearance, however, could not prevent Miami from suffering another defeat and exiting the competition at the group stage for the first time since the tournament was expanded in 2023.
That year marked Messi’s arrival at Inter Miami, when he inspired the club to its first Leagues Cup title.
Messi’s teammates rallied around him following his return, with midfielder Yannick Bright describing the decision to play as a reflection of the Argentine’s commitment to the club.
“I wasn’t expecting it,” Bright said, adding that seeing Messi return motivated the players to give their best for their captain.
He said the team understood that Messi was going through a difficult period and wanted to remain close to him and offer their support.
Leon coach Javier Gandolfi also praised Messi for taking part in the match despite his personal circumstances.
He described the Argentine as an exceptional human being and said his decision to play once again demonstrated his character.
Jorge Messi’s influence on his son’s career extended across decades. He was closely involved in Lionel’s development from his teenage years and was beside him as he eventually captained Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.
Messi has also previously spoken about his father’s wish for him to compete at another World Cup despite Jorge’s deteriorating health.
With Messi now openly questioning how long he will continue playing, his return against Leon has added an emotional dimension to the final stages of one of football’s most celebrated careers.
