Lionel Messi has become the new owner of Spanish fifth-tier side Cornella, the club announced on Thursday. The acquisition marks a significant step in Messi’s long-standing connection to Catalonia, where he spent most of his career with Barcelona.
Messi, currently playing in the United States for Inter Miami, is expected to play a central role in Argentina’s defense of their World Cup title later this year. Despite his ongoing commitments on the pitch, his investment in Cornella reflects a broader vision for supporting local football development.
Cornella, based in the Barcelona suburbs, has produced several notable players, including Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and Messi’s former Barcelona teammate Jordi Alba. However, the club has struggled in recent seasons, suffering consecutive relegations.
In a statement, Cornella described Messi’s arrival as the beginning of a new chapter. The club said the project would focus on sporting and institutional growth, strengthening foundations, and investing in talent. It emphasized a long-term strategy built on ambition, sustainability, and strong ties to local roots.
Messi’s history in Catalonia is well established. He joined Barcelona’s academy as a teenager and went on to spend 17 seasons in the first team, becoming the club’s all-time leading scorer with 672 goals. His achievements helped define an era of dominance for Barcelona in both domestic and European competitions.
At 38, Messi has already indicated that he plans to return to live in Catalonia after retiring from professional football. His purchase of Cornella aligns with that intention, reinforcing his commitment to the region beyond his playing career.
Cornella’s struggles in recent years make Messi’s involvement particularly significant. His ownership is expected to bring stability and renewed ambition, while also offering young players a platform to develop. The club hopes his influence will attract greater attention, sponsorship, and resources.
Messi’s move comes shortly after Cristiano Ronaldo acquired a 25 percent stake in Spanish second-tier club Almeria. The parallel investments by two of football’s greatest rivals highlight a growing trend of elite players shaping the future of smaller clubs through ownership and investment.
For Cornella, Messi’s presence offers both symbolic and practical benefits. His global stature ensures visibility, while his ties to Barcelona and Catalonia strengthen the club’s identity. The challenge ahead will be translating that influence into improved performance and long-term success.
As Argentina prepares to begin its World Cup campaign against Algeria in Kansas on June 16, Messi’s dual role as player and club owner underscores his enduring impact on football. His acquisition of Cornella signals a commitment to nurturing talent and contributing to the sport’s growth at the grassroots level.
