Lionel Messi has become the new owner of Spanish fifth-tier side UE Cornella, the Catalonia-based club announced on Thursday, marking the Argentina captain’s first full takeover of a European team as he prepares for life after his playing career.
The club said Messi has formalised the acquisition of a 100 per cent stake in the Baix Llobregat institution, which competes in Group 5 of the Tercera Federacion. “UE Cornella announces that Argentinian footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has formalised the acquisition of the club, becoming the new owner of the Baix Llobregat institution,” the official statement read.
Cornella said the move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia, “a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since.” The club added that Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in its history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent.
Founded in 1951, Cornella is based in the municipality of Cornella de Llobregat, just five miles from the Camp Nou. The club has a strong youth academy and has produced several players who reached elite levels, including Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, former Barcelona defender and Messi’s Inter Miami teammate Jordi Alba, Gerard Martín, Javi Puado, Keita Baldé, Aitor Ruibal, and MLS champion Ilie Sánchez.
Cornella is currently third in the Tercera Federacion Group 5 and has secured a spot in the promotion play-offs, sitting five points behind leaders Manresa with four matches left. “The project is guided by a long-term vision and a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to its local roots,” the club said.
The deal follows Messi’s stated ambition to move into club ownership. “I want to have my own club, start from the bottom and make it big. Being able to give kids the opportunity to develop and achieve something important,” Messi told Argentine streaming channel Luzu TV earlier this year. He has already partnered with Luis Suarez to launch Uruguayan fourth-division team Deportivo LSM.
Messi, 38, is contracted to MLS side Inter Miami until 2028. He led Inter Miami to their first MLS Cup last year. The takeover of Cornella places him among a growing list of active players investing in clubs, following Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham, Cristiano Ronaldo with a stake in UD Almería, and others.
Cornella said Messi is expected to support the club with a solid investment plan, focusing on enhancing the youth academy and helping the team reach higher levels in Spanish football.
