Lionel Messi appears to have found some peace through football following the death of his father, Jorge, Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos said on Tuesday.
Jorge Messi died aged 68 on August 8 in Rosario, Argentina. His death left his son facing a deeply personal loss, but Messi has returned to action for Inter Miami within weeks of the tragedy.
The Argentina captain came off the bench in last week’s 3-2 Leagues Cup defeat by Leon before starting Sunday’s 4-1 loss to Nashville.
Hoyos said Messi now looks settled when he steps back onto the pitch.
“He looks good, expressing himself on the pitch, a place he knows to perfection, and at peace,” the Miami coach told reporters.
Messi had paid an emotional tribute to his father on social media last week. He described Jorge as his father, friend and representative and admitted that he did not know how to move forward without him.
Jorge played a central role throughout Messi’s career. He managed his son’s affairs and remained a key figure in his professional life.
Messi’s return has also earned praise from fellow professionals. Brazil midfielder Casemiro highlighted the commitment the 39-year-old has shown to both his teammates and Inter Miami despite the circumstances.
“He sets a great example,” Casemiro said after the Leon match. “He is surely going through a very difficult time, but the commitment he has shown, not just to the players but to the club, has been incredible.”
