Lionel Messi Returns to Inter Miami After Father’s Passing: A Simple Guide

What Happened?

Lionel Messi, the famous soccer superstar, came back to his team Inter Miami CF on Wednesday. He had been away because his dad, Jorge Messi, passed away on Saturday. Jorge was 68 years old and died in a hospital in Rosario, Argentina—the city where Messi grew up.

Important Point: This was a very emotional week for Messi and his family. He missed a game on Saturday to attend a private memorial service for his father in Argentina.

Timeline of Events

1. Saturday – Jorge Messi passes away in Rosario, Argentina. Messi flies there for the memorial.
2. Saturday (Game Day) – Inter Miami plays Monterrey without Messi. They lose the match.
3. Wednesday – Messi rejoins the team for their Leagues Cup game against Club León at Nu Stadium.
4. Wednesday (Game Time) – Messi starts on the bench (substitutes’ list). Miami leads 1–0 at halftime.
5. Second Half – Messi comes on to replace Dániel Pintér (who scored the opening goal).

Messi’s Heartfelt Tribute

Before the game, Messi shared an emotional message on Instagram about his dad. Here’s what he said in simple terms:

• His dad really wanted him to play in the World Cup.
• Right before the tournament, his dad got very sick and couldn’t travel.
• Messi promised himself: "We’ll reach the final so you can be there."
• After every game, he waited for his dad’s messages—but they stopped coming.
• He played through the pain, hoping to win the trophy for his dad.
• Argentina lost in the final to Spain (in this story’s version).
• Messi says: "My legs had nothing left to give. I tried, but I couldn’t."
• He ends with: "You were right once again: I had to be there and play."

Important Point: This shows how much Messi’s dad meant to his career. Even superheroes need their parents.

What the Coach Said

Inter Miami’s manager, Guillermo Hoyos, talked about how hard this has been:

• "It is a huge shame, a source of great pain."
• "Often, there are no words for it."
• "When you go through such a difficult experience, it is hard to recover."
• The whole locker room is feeling the sadness.

Why This Game Matters

• It’s the Leagues Cup—a tournament between MLS (USA/Canada) and Liga MX (Mexico) teams.
• Miami won their first game vs. Atlético San Luis.
• They lost the second vs. Monterrey (while Messi was away).
• This third game vs. Club León decides if they advance to the knockout round.
• First time ever: Messi watches kickoff from the bench as captain.

Summary

FAQ

Why did Messi miss the previous game?

He flew to Rosario, Argentina for a private memorial service for his father, Jorge, who passed away on Saturday.

Did Messi start the game vs. Club León?

No. He was on the bench and came in at halftime, replacing Dániel Pintér.

What is the Leagues Cup?

It’s a tournament where teams from Major League Soccer (USA/Canada) play against teams from Liga MX (Mexico). The winner gets a spot in the CONCACAF Champions Cup.

What did Messi say about his dad in his Instagram post?

He said his dad wanted him to play in the World Cup, got sick before it started, and Messi tried to win it for him—but Argentina lost in the final. He called his dad his motivation.

How is the team handling this?

Coach Guillermo Hoyos said it’s been "a source of great pain" for everyone in the locker room. They’re supporting Messi through a very tough time.

Final Thoughts

Lionel Messi is one of the greatest soccer players ever—but this week reminded us he’s also a son who loved his dad deeply. Returning to the field so soon shows courage, but seeing him on the bench first? That’s a rare, human moment.

Remember: Even heroes grieve. And sometimes, just showing up is the bravest thing you can do.