Lionel Messi made an emotional return to action for Inter Miami on Wednesday, just days after the death of his father, Jorge Messi.

The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner came on as a half-time substitute in Miami’s 3-2 defeat by Leon in the Leagues Cup, receiving a huge reception from supporters at the Chase Stadium.

Messi’s father, Jorge, died in Rosario, Argentina, last week at the age of 68 following a long illness. He had been a hugely influential figure throughout his son’s career, becoming Messi’s agent when he was just 14 and remaining by his side as he developed into one of football’s greatest ever players.

The 39-year-old had missed Miami’s 2-1 defeat by Monterrey on Saturday after returning to Argentina for his father’s private funeral on Sunday.

Messi had also raised doubts over his playing future following his father’s death.

In an emotional social media message, the Argentina captain admitted he was “really not sure if I’ll carry on doing it for much longer”, while revealing that his father had encouraged him to play at one more World Cup despite his deteriorating health.

Messi subsequently returned to the United States and made himself available to Inter Miami manager Guillermo Hoyos for their must-win meeting with Mexican side Leon.

Despite Messi’s return, Miami were unable to progress and were eliminated in the opening phase of the Leagues Cup for the first time since the competition was expanded in 2023.

Miami won the tournament in 2023, shortly after Messi’s arrival at the club.

The Argentina forward’s return was praised by his team-mates, with midfielder Yannick Bright describing his appearance as “incredible”.

“I wasn’t expecting it,” Bright said. “It shows how much he cares. When I saw he was here, all I was thinking about was to give my 150% for him.

“It’s a tough situation. We try to stay close to him and support him as much as we can, but it’s a lot.”

Leon manager Javier Gandolfi also paid tribute to Messi, saying the legendary forward is a “human being that is different to the rest”.

“Today he demonstrated once more what he’s made of,” Gandolfi added.

Messi’s future now remains one of the biggest talking points in world football, with the veteran forward appearing increasingly uncertain about how much longer he wants to continue his remarkable career.

For now, however, Messi has shown that despite the most difficult period of his personal life, he remains willing to stand alongside his Inter Miami team-mates.