Messi family seeks privacy as father receives medical treatment
What's new: Jorge Messi, 68, is under medical observation as the family pushes back on false death reports in Argentina.
Lionel Messi’s family said Thursday that his father, Jorge Messi, is receiving medical treatment for an undisclosed illness and asked for privacy after rumors about his condition spread in Argentina. A family statement said the 68-year-old is under medical supervision, recovering and progressing favorably, but gave no further details. The statement came after false reports of Jorge Messi’s death circulated the same day. Messi had hinted at personal difficulties after scoring in Argentina’s 3-0 World Cup win over Algeria, saying his tears were unrelated to soccer. The family said only close relatives have accurate information and urged the media to show responsibility, prudence and humanity.