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Lionel Messi's father, Jorge, has died at the age of 68.
Jorge Messi will be remembered as one of the most significant figures in the sporting world during the first quarter of the 21st century, having guided his record-breaking son through an extraordinary career that spanned Rosario, Barcelona, Paris, and Miami.
Messi began his soccer career with Newell's Old Boys in his hometown of Rosario, Argentina, and the club posted a heartfelt tribute to Jorge on social media, saying farewell "with deep sorrow and grief."
The club's statement read: "Jorge was the foundation and the person who supported with vision, dedication and love the career of the greatest player of all time, alongside his wife, Celia Cuccittini.
"His unwavering presence and behind-the-scenes guidance were crucial in supporting every step of Lionel's journey, from his early days at Malvinas to the very top of world football.
"Thank you for teaching him to love these colors [of Newell's Old Boys]. The Board of Directors, members, athletes, and the entire leprosa family send their warmest embrace to Celia, Lionel, Rodrigo, Matías, and María Sol, and all their loved ones during this difficult time."
A statement from CONMEBOL, the governing body of South American soccer, said: "CONMEBOL deeply mourns the passing of Jorge Messi, father of Argentine footballer Lionel Messi.
"We stand alongside Lionel, his family, friends and loved ones with respect and affection during this time of profound loss.
"May he rest in peace."
Messi's emotional tears after scoring a World Cup hat trick for Argentina against Algeria in June were described by the player himself as "completely unrelated to sports" and were later reported in Argentina to be connected to his father's deteriorating health.
Messi's Father, Agent, Adviser
When Messi was scouted by Barcelona in 2000, the entire family initially relocated across the Atlantic from South America to Spain. However, when his mother and siblings grew homesick and returned home, Jorge remained with his son to help turn his dreams into reality.
Back in Rosario, Jorge had worked at a steel factory but effectively had to learn the business side of soccer once his son's career flourished, going on to advise, represent and negotiate on behalf of the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner for over two decades, helping shape the career of soccer's greatest player of all time.
Messi never felt the need to hand his affairs over to a major agency, keeping management within the family throughout his celebrated career.