Lionel Messi has cast doubt on his future in soccer in an emotional statement following the death of his father.

Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 on Saturday in hospital in his hometown of Rosario following a long illness, having previously acted as his son’s agent throughout his world-beating career.

The Argentina great took to social media on Wednesday to deliver an emotional post in which he made it clear his days could be numbered as a pro.

“I don’t know what I’m going to do without you,” the 39-year-old wrote on Instagram.

“I don’t know how to carry on. I used to just play football, and now I’m really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer.

“You were by my side from the beginning; there was so little left until the end. Why couldn’t you hold on just a little longer so we could finish it together?”

A private funeral was held at a cemetery in the town of Perez outside Rosario on Sunday.

“Rest in peace and take care of us from above like you did here. Thanks for everything. I love you, dad.””led them to the 2026 World Cup final, losing 1-0 to Spain”

He said of the final, which his father was unable to attend: “I wanted to win it so I could bring the trophy to you and show you a new one.

“I couldn’t, my legs had nothing left. This time I tried to push past my physical limits, but I couldn’t. I never managed to feel right.

“I am going to miss you a lot, but you will always be present, and especially in the education of my children, because I teach them and educate them as you did with me.

“Rest in peace and take care of us from above like you did here. Thanks for everything. I love you, dad.”

Jorge was a follower of his local team Newell’s Old Boys whom his son joined when he was seven years old.

The family moved to Spain in February 2001 after Messi was signed by Barcelona. Messi’s mother and three siblings soon moved back to Rosario whilst his father stayed behind in Barcelona.

Commenting on the post, Messi’s long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo said: “A huge hug to you and your family in these tough times, Leo. Stay strong.”

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner as the world’s greatest player, currently is in his fourth season with Inter Miami. He led the ‌team to their first MLS Cup championship and won his second straight league MVP award last season.