The news generated numerous expressions of affection from the football world. The Argentine Football Association (AFA) called for a minute of silence and the wearing of black armbands in matches played during the day, while Newell's Old Boys, Barcelona, and other institutions publicly expressed their condolences to the family.
Jorge Messi was hospitalized at the Sanatorio Centro de Rosario and his passing was confirmed early Saturday morning. The family had requested discretion and respect in the weeks prior, without providing details about the illness he was facing.
With the private ceremony at El Prado, Lionel Messi was able to say goodbye to his father surrounded by his loved ones, in the same city where their story began and which, this time, welcomed him to support him in one of the most difficult moments of his life.










