Lionel Messi buys Spanish club as he expands into ownership

April 17, 2026 Oliver Obel

Lionel Messi has taken a significant step beyond his playing career, purchasing Spanish lower-division side UE Cornella in a move that links him back to the region where he became a global star.

The 38-year-old Inter Miami forward has acquired a 100% stake in the Catalonia-based club, UE Cornella confirmed in a statement. Financial details of the deal were not disclosed.

The team competes in Spain’s fifth tier, part of the country’s semi-professional football structure, and is currently attempting to return to the fourth division after relegation last season.

Located just outside Barcelona—where Messi spent the majority of his career—Cornella’s stadium sits only a few miles from the Camp Nou, underscoring the symbolic nature of the investment.

Long-term project in familiar territory

In its statement, UE Cornella said Messi’s takeover reflects his ongoing ties to Catalonia and an interest in developing local talent.

“UE Cornella announces that Argentinian footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has formalized the acquisition of the club,” the club said.

It added that the move is intended to support “sporting and institutional growth” while maintaining a focus on sustainability and community identity.

Rather than a short-term venture, the club described the project as part of a broader, long-term strategy centered on rebuilding and investment in youth development.

Messi joins a growing list of active or recently retired players exploring club ownership, although such moves remain relatively uncommon for footballers still competing at the top level.

A small club with notable alumni

Founded in 1951, UE Cornella has a history of developing players who have gone on to compete at the highest levels.

Among its former players are Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and Spain international Jordi Alba, a long-time teammate of Messi at both Barcelona and Inter Miami. Others to emerge from the club include Javi Puado, Keita Balde, and Aitor Ruibal.

Cornella briefly drew international attention in 2021 when it defeated Atletico Madrid 1–0 in the Copa del Rey, before being eliminated by Barcelona in the following round.

Uncertainty over Messi’s international future

While Messi is now making moves off the pitch, questions remain about his international career.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni recently said the decision on whether Messi will play at the 2026 World Cup rests entirely with the player.

“This is a question more for him,” Scaloni said, adding that Messi has “earned the right to decide calmly” based on his physical condition and motivation.

Messi led Argentina to World Cup victory in 2022, but has not yet confirmed whether he will attempt to compete in the next tournament, which will be held across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Sources: UE Cornella statement; comments from Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni