Otamendi offers condolences to Messi's family, hopes they find strength

Paredes spoke on behalf of the Argentina national team after Messi's father passed away. The midfielder said that he and his Argentina teammates wanted to support Messi and be there for him during this difficult time.

Paredes acted as the spokesperson for the Argentine national team after Jorge Messi's passing. The midfielder stated that he and his Argentina teammates wished to support Messi and be by his side during this challenging period.

The Boca Juniors captain spoke about this after his team's draw with Sarsfield in the Argentine League: "I haven't been able to talk to him yet. Now we have to wait for him to return to Argentina, see if we can visit him at home and give him support, because he means a lot to us, and we empathize with him." He made these remarks just as Messi arrived in Rosario.

Paredes's words reflect the deep friendship among members of the Argentine national team and indicate that they will not let Messi face this darkest moment alone.

Another player who publicly expressed his support was Otamendi. The Argentine international defender said: "I extend my condolences to his entire family and have conveyed this sentiment to 'La Pulga' (his affectionate nickname for Messi). I hope they have the strength to get through these difficult days."

Although the medical facility where Jorge Messi passed away stated it would not release details regarding the cause of death, Messi's father's health had been deteriorating for several months prior.

There were earlier warning signs: after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria, the Argentine star admitted he was experiencing a difficult family situation, which sparked widespread speculation about his father's health. The situation became so intense that the Messi family had to issue a statement clarifying that Jorge was receiving treatment and recovering well.

It is worth noting that following the 2026 World Cup, the Argentine captain took a flight directly to Rosario to be with his father.

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