Buenos Aires, Aug. 31 -- Following Lionel Messi's decision to retire from international football, the 39-year-old's mother, Celia, shared an emotional statement reflecting on the deep connection her late husband, Jorge Messi, shared with their son's footballing journey.

According to America TV, Celia's statement was read out by a news anchor, highlighting the bittersweet timing of the legend's departure from the national team just weeks after his father's passing.

Jorge Messi passed away on August 8 in Rosario at the age of 68. Reflecting on her family's grief and the central role Messi's career played in his father's life, Celia revealed how her late husband often wondered about life after Messi's international career, only for his pas...