India, Aug. 8 -- Jorge Messi, Lionel Messi's father, has passed away at the age of 68, according to several media reports. He played a major role in shaping Lionel's football career and also worked as his representative, handling several of his son's football-related matters away from the pitch. The Argentina football team captain has often acknowledged the influence his father had on his journey to the top of the game.

Before becoming closely involved in his son's career, Jorge worked as a chemical technician and later as a steelworker. He was also a footballer in his younger days, playing as a midfielder and progressing through the youth ranks at Newell's Old Boys in Rosario. However, Jorge eventually had to give up his playing career ...