Lionel Messi 's family has issued a comprehensive statement following reports that his father, Jorge, is experiencing health issues. The Argentina captain was spotted in tears after the first of his three goals against Algeria at the FIFA World Cup, with it subsequently claimed that it was due to his father's condition.
A statement has since been released, which reads, via The Mirror : "The Messi family informs that Jorge is going through a health situation. At this time, he is under medical monitoring, recovering and evolving favourably within the condition he is presenting.
"In response to the versions, rumors, and speculations that have circulated in recent hours, the family wishes to express its deep distress over the lack of sensitivity, respect, and scruples with which some people have treated a strictly private and family situation.
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"The family also wishes to clarify that only its closest family members have real and accurate information about Jorge's condition. Therefore, any version, statement, or information that does not come from the family itself and its corresponding channels should not be considered valid or truthful.
"In moments like this, we ask for responsibility, prudence, and humanity. A person's health and the peace of mind of their surroundings should not be the object of speculation or irresponsible media interest.
"We sincerely thank you for the displays of affection, respect, and concern received, and we request that the privacy, confidentiality, and intimacy of Jorge and his entire family be preserved during this process.
"Any relevant updates will be communicated in a timely manner by the family and the corresponding channels. Thank you for your understanding."
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Messi confirmed following the 3-0 victory for his nation that he was visibly emotional during the match due to something "completely unrelated to football."
The 38-year-old went on to net two more stunning goals after his reaction to breaking the deadlock at his sixth World Cup appearance.
Registering three goals at the tournament pushed his total to 16, drawing him level with all-time World Cup leading scorer Miroslav Klose. It also marked his first-ever hat-trick at a World Cup.
Messi will be aiming to claim the outright record in their second group-stage game against Austria next Monday.
