Lionel Messi ‘at peace’ after father’s passing, says Inter Miami coach

Lionel Messi appears to be finding some peace following the death of his father earlier this month, according to Inter Miami coach Guillermo Hoyos.

Messi’s father, Jorge Messi, died aged 68 in Rosario, Argentina, on August 8. The Argentina captain returned to action for Inter Miami last week, coming off the bench during their Leagues Cup defeat to Club León before starting Sunday’s 4-1 loss to Nashville SC.

Despite the difficult personal circumstances, Hoyos said Messi appears to be coping and has been able to express himself on the football pitch.

“He looks good, expressing himself on the pitch, a place he knows to perfection, and at peace,” Hoyos told reporters on Tuesday.

Messi recently shared an emotional tribute to his father, describing Jorge as his father, friend and representative while admitting that he did not know how to move forward without him.

The loss has clearly been a difficult period for the Inter Miami superstar, but his commitment to returning to the team has earned praise from his teammates.

Midfielder Casemiro highlighted Messi’s professionalism and dedication despite the circumstances surrounding his father’s death.

“He sets a great example,” Casemiro said after the match against León. “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. I’ve never seen anything like it in my life.”

Messi will now look to continue helping Inter Miami on the pitch as the club moves forward with its season, while dealing privately with the loss of his father.