Messi returns for Inter Miami after his father's death, ovation awaits | OneFootball

Lionel Messi made his return this Wednesday alongside the Inter Miami squad following the death of his father, Jorge Messi, and was welcomed with a loud ovation from fans at the Florida club’s stadium. The Argentine was named among the substitutes for the match against Mexico’s León on matchday three of the Leagues Cup.

The presence of the Albiceleste captain had remained uncertain until shortly before kickoff. In the end, he was included in the squad and arrived at the stadium drinking mate. During the opening minutes of the match, cameras showed him on the bench with his teammates as fans gave him a warm reception.

The return came just days after the death of Jorge Messi, who passed away at the age of 68 in a hospital in Rosario. The footballer’s father played a fundamental role throughout his career and was also his agent for much of it.

This Wednesday, Messi also posted a lengthy farewell message to his father on social media, recalling his personal and professional influence. “I don’t know what I’m going to do without you, how I’m going to carry on,” wrote the forward, who also said he had hoped Jorge would be able to accompany him during the 2026 World Cup.

Inter Miami had played its previous match without Messi, a 2-1 loss to Monterrey, a game in which the club also held a minute of silence in memory of Jorge Messi.

THE START OF THE MATCH:

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