Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has officially taken a new step in his post-playing career by becoming an owner of Spanish lower-league club UE Cornellà, according to an announcement made by the Catalan side.
The 38-year-old World Cup winner, who is still actively playing for Inter Miami CF in Major League Soccer, has now added club ownership to his football legacy while continuing his playing career.
Cornellà, a club competing in Spain’s fifth tier, confirmed the development by stating that the “eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has formalised the acquisition of the club,” marking a major moment in the team’s history.
The club also highlighted that the move strengthens Messi’s longstanding connection with Catalonia, where he spent the majority of his legendary career at FC Barcelona.
They added that the decision reflects Messi’s intention to contribute to football development beyond his playing days, particularly in nurturing young talent and supporting the growth of grassroots sport in the region.
A new chapter in Messi’s football journey
Messi is widely regarded as one of the greatest footballers of all time, having won multiple major trophies during his long spell at Barcelona. He lifted the UEFA Champions League four times and secured 10 La Liga titles, along with numerous domestic and international honours.
After leaving Barcelona in 2021, he spent two seasons at Paris Saint-Germain before moving to the United States in 2023 to join Inter Miami, where he continues to play at a high level.
Now, with his investment in Cornellà, Messi is following a growing trend of former and active footballers moving into club ownership and football business ventures.
Small club with strong development history
Cornellà is a modest club in terms of size and infrastructure, with their stadium holding just around 1,500 spectators. Despite their size, they are well known in Catalonia for their strong youth development system.
Several notable players have passed through the club’s academy, including Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba, both of whom went on to establish successful top-level careers.
The club believes Messi’s involvement will further strengthen its reputation as a pathway for emerging talent, both in Spain and internationally.
Club statement and long-term vision
In their official announcement, Cornellà described Messi’s arrival as the beginning of a “new chapter” in the club’s history. They said the aim is to improve both sporting performance and institutional growth while reinforcing their long-term structure.
The club emphasised that the project is built around sustainability and ambition, with a clear focus on developing local players and maintaining strong community connections.
They also stressed that Messi’s involvement is not only symbolic but strategic, as they look to grow their profile and competitiveness in Spanish football.
Part of a wider trend in football ownership
Messi’s move into club ownership follows a wider trend of high-profile players investing in football clubs after or during their playing careers.
Earlier this year, former rival Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a minority stake in Spanish club Almería, highlighting how elite players are increasingly becoming involved in football business and governance.
This shift reflects a broader transformation in football, where global stars are using their influence and resources to shape the future of the sport beyond their playing days.
A lasting link to Catalonia
Although Messi now plays in the United States, his ties to Catalonia remain strong. He arrived in Spain as a teenager and developed entirely within Barcelona’s system, eventually becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer with 672 goals in 778 appearances.
His impact at Barcelona remains unmatched, and his investment in a Catalan club reinforces his enduring connection to the region where he built his legacy.
Looking ahead
Messi’s ownership role at Cornellà is expected to focus on long-term development rather than immediate results. The club hopes his involvement will bring greater visibility, improved infrastructure, and stronger pathways for young players aiming to reach professional football.
While he continues his playing career in MLS, Messi’s off-field influence in European football is now set to grow significantly.
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