Lionel Messi was absent from Inter Miami’s latest match following the death of his father, Jorge Messi. But even without the Argentine superstar on the field, his presence was felt through an emotional tribute from teammate Rodrigo De Paul.

Football is usually about goals, assists, trophies and big moments.

But sometimes, the game becomes secondary.

That was the case for Lionel Messi, who missed Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Monterrey after the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

Jorge Messi died at the age of 68 following a long illness. He was not only Lionel Messi’s father but also played a major role in supporting his son throughout his football career.

For Messi, this was a deeply personal loss.

Messi Was Not With Inter Miami

Messi was unavailable for Inter Miami’s match against Monterrey as he returned to Argentina following his father’s death.

Inter Miami acknowledged the difficult situation and offered support to their captain and his family.

Before the match, Jorge Messi was also remembered with a tribute.

For a team that has become closely associated with Messi since his arrival in Major League Soccer, his absence was impossible to ignore.

But one of the most emotional moments came during the match.

Rodrigo De Paul Honors Messi With No. 10 Jersey

In the 32nd minute, Rodrigo De Paul scored for Inter Miami.

Instead of celebrating normally, De Paul lifted his shirt and revealed a Lionel Messi No. 10 jersey underneath.

The gesture immediately caught the attention of football fans.

It was more than a goal celebration.

It was a message of support from one friend to another during an extremely difficult moment.

De Paul and Messi have developed a close relationship through their years together with the Argentina national team. They have also become teammates at Inter Miami.

By showing Messi's famous No. 10 shirt, De Paul made it clear that his teammate was still very much in the thoughts of the team.

Inter Miami Could Not Hold Onto the Lead

De Paul’s goal gave Inter Miami an early advantage, but the team eventually suffered defeat against Monterrey.

While the result mattered in the Leagues Cup, the biggest story surrounding the match was Messi's absence and the emotional tribute to his father.

For many fans, the moment involving De Paul was more memorable than the final score.

Jorge Messi Was a Major Part of Lionel’s Journey

Lionel Messi is now regarded as one of the greatest footballers in history.

His career includes:

  • Multiple Ballon d'Or awards

  • World Cup glory with Argentina

  • Copa América success

  • Champions League titles

  • Numerous domestic trophies

  • Historic records at Barcelona

  • A major impact on football in the United States with Inter Miami

But behind that legendary career was his family, including his father Jorge.

Jorge Messi supported Lionel from his early football days and later became his representative.

He was an important figure during the early stages of Messi’s journey from Argentina to European football and eventually to global superstardom.

That makes his death an especially difficult moment for the football icon.

Football World Shows Support for Messi

Following Jorge Messi’s death, tributes came from across the football world.

The Argentine football community, clubs connected to Messi’s career and people who worked with the family expressed condolences and support.

Messi's connection with Argentina goes far beyond football.

He has represented the country for more than two decades and eventually led Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022.

Now, instead of preparing for another major match, Messi is dealing with the loss of one of the most important people in his life.

Even the GOAT Is Human

Fans often see footballers through statistics.

How many goals did Messi score?

How many trophies has he won?

When will he play again?

Will he retire soon?

But moments like this remind everyone that behind the superstar is a human being dealing with real-life emotions and family loss.

Messi may be one of the most famous athletes on the planet.

But right now, he is simply a son mourning his father.

And Rodrigo De Paul’s tribute showed exactly what friendship can mean during a difficult moment.

When Will Messi Return?

There is no need to rush Messi back onto the football field.

His return will depend on his personal situation and when he feels ready to rejoin Inter Miami.

For now, football can wait.

Messi has spent his entire career giving fans unforgettable moments. This time, supporters around the world will be hoping he gets the space and support he needs away from the pitch.

The Bottom Line

Inter Miami’s defeat against Monterrey will eventually become another result in the history books.

But Rodrigo De Paul’s tribute will be remembered differently.

A goal.

A No. 10 jersey.

And a simple message of support for Lionel Messi during one of the hardest moments of his life.

Football can wait. Family comes first.