Lionel Messi's family broke their silence on his father's health condition on Thursday. Jorge Messi is currently receiving medical care and responding positively to treatment, they confirmed.
"At this time, he is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favourably within the condition he is experiencing," read the family's statement.
Speculation about Jorge Messi's wellbeing intensified after the Argentina captain wept following his first goal this week. He netted a hat-trick in Argentina's 3-0 rout of Algeria in World Cup action.
His tearful celebration raised eyebrows among observers. Many wondered what had triggered such an emotional display on the pitch.
The 38-year-old star addressed the tears after the match. According to him, his breakdown had nothing to do with football itself.
"Why did I cry? It was something completely unrelated to football," Messi told reporters.
"I went through some difficult days, but I'm grateful to the entire delegation and my teammates because they were always by my side, giving me a lot of strength to help me get through it."
With that hat-trick, Messi now stands level with Miroslav Klose's all-time World Cup goalscoring record. The achievement marked another milestone in his storied career.
But the Messi family expressed deep displeasure with media handling of Jorge's condition. They accused some outlets of insensitivity and disrespect toward a private matter.
"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 statement read.
Only Jorge's closest relatives possess accurate information about his health, they insisted. Any claims from other sources shouldn't be trusted, the family warned.
"Therefore, any version, statement or information that does not come directly from the family and its official channels should not be considered valid or truthful," they noted.
The family appealed for privacy during this challenging period. They requested media responsibility and human decency from all quarters.
"At times like these, we ask for responsibility, prudence and humanity," the statement continued. "A person's health and the peace of mind of those around them should not be the subject of speculation or irresponsible media interest."
Jorge Messi has been instrumental in his son's legendary career trajectory. He worked as both agent and business manager for the football icon.
Before managing Lionel's affairs, Jorge worked as a supervisor at a metal factory in Rosario, Argentina. That's where the family originally came from.
Supporters have sent messages of concern and affection to the Messi household. The family expressed gratitude for these gestures of kindness.
