Lionel Messi departed Argentina late Tuesday night alongside his family, boarding a private flight from Rosario bound for the United States to rejoin Inter Miami following the death and funeral of his father, Jorge Messi. According to reporting by La Nación, the football star’s private aircraft took off at 10:53 p.m. local time from the Rosario airport, with an expected arrival in South Florida early Wednesday morning ahead of upcoming club commitments.
Departure from Rosario Following an Intimate Family Farewell
The captain of the Argentina national team left his hometown after spending several days surrounded by close family following the passing of Jorge Messi at age 68. As detailed by Infobae, Messi and his wife, Antonela Roccuzzo, participated in an intimate wake and private ceremony held at the El Prado cemetery in Pérez, located roughly 20 minutes from the family residence in the Kentucky country club in Funes. Flight tracking data indicated that the family traveled aboard a Bombardier Global 6000, touching down in Florida to prepare for the resumption of competitive play.
Inter Miami Prepares for Leagues Cup Action
Inter Miami faces a quick turnaround as the club prepares to host Mexican side León in the Leagues Cup. Team manager Ángel Guillermo Hoyos addressed the emotional toll on the squad during a recent press conference, noting the difficulty of the situation. According to statements published by Infobae, Hoyos told reporters, “We know what happened with Leo and it’s a very big pain, we have suffered it a lot,” adding that the team experienced a period of mourning that included a moment of silence prior to their recent fixture.
Legacy and Lifelong Support
Jorge Messi played a foundational role in his son’s career, guiding him from his earliest days playing youth football in Rosario at Abanderado Grandoli and Newell’s Old Boys to relocating with him to Barcelona more than two decades ago. Throughout his career, Lionel Messi frequently acknowledged his father’s constant presence and support through the pressures of professional sports. Following the recent passing, tributes poured in from across the footballing world, including statements of solidarity from Inter Miami defender Facundo Mura, who emphasized the club’s readiness to support their captain upon his return.
Next Steps for the Club Captain
With his return to the United States completed, attention shifts to Inter Miami’s schedule in both the Leagues Cup and Major League Soccer. While the club prepares for their midweek fixture against León, team officials have not yet confirmed the exact timeline for Messi’s return to the starting lineup following his period of bereavement.
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