The family of Lionel Messi has issued a statement confirming that his father is currently dealing with a “health-related situation.”
The statement said: “At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing.”
The news follows an emotional week for the Argentina captain, who was seen in tears after scoring in their opening World Cup match.
Argentina defeated Algeria 3-0, with Messi going on to complete a hat-trick in a commanding group stage performance.
That hat-trick drew him level with Miroslav Klose at the top of the all-time World Cup goalscoring list, a remarkable individual milestone.
After the match, Messi addressed his visible distress, stating that the tears had nothing to do with football.
“I went through some difficult days, but I’m grateful to the entire delegation and my team-mates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it,” Messi said.
The family moved to address growing speculation around Jorge Messi’s health in the aftermath of that opening fixture.
Their statement read: “In light of speculation that has circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep discomfort with the lack of sensitivity, respect, and discretion with which some people have treated what is strictly a private family matter.”
The family also made clear that only those closest to Jorge Messi hold accurate information about his current condition.
“Any version, statement, or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful,” the statement continued.
The family called on the media and the public to act with greater responsibility during this difficult period.
“At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and humanity. A person’s health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest,” the statement said.
The family concluded by thanking those who had offered kind words while asking for privacy to be respected throughout the process.
Argentina’s next group stage fixture is against Austria on Monday 22 June, before they round off their group campaign against Jordan on Sunday 28 June.
