He’s spent over two decades conquering the pitch, but Lionel Messi is officially ready to conquer the boardroom. In a move that sent shockwaves through the footballing world this week, the Inter Miami superstar has finalized a deal to become the 100% owner of Spanish club UE Cornellà.
The announcement marks a massive shift for the 38-year-old Argentine, who is already planning for life after his playing days in Miami. By acquiring the Catalonia-based side, Messi isn’t just buying a team; he’s returning to his roots.
A Homecoming in Catalonia
UE Cornellà isn’t just any random club. Based only 10km outside of Barcelona, it’s a team Messi knows well from his days at La Masia. The club has a prestigious reputation for nurturing young talent, having helped produce stars like Arsenal’s David Raya and Messi’s current Inter Miami teammate, Jordi Alba.
In an official statement, the club noted that Messi’s arrival “reinforces his close ties to Barcelona” and emphasizes his commitment to developing local talent in the region that raised him. It’s clear that Leo wants to build something sustainable, using his “Messi Cup” youth initiatives to bridge the gap between his academy in Miami and his new project in Spain.
The Multi-Club Mogul?
While Cornellà is the first club Messi owns outright, his business empire is expanding rapidly. Here’s a look at his current “ownership” portfolio:
• UE Cornellà (Spain): 100% ownership. Messi is the sole boss here, aiming to drive the fifth-tier side back up the Spanish divisions.
• Inter Miami (USA): As part of his blockbuster MLS contract, Messi has a guaranteed equity stake in Inter Miami that will activate upon his retirement. With the club now valued at over $1.35 billion, that’s a massive piece of the pie.
• **Deportivo LSM (Uruguay): Earlier this year, Messi partnered with his best mate Luis Suárez to launch this fourth-division team, focusing on South American youth development.
Why Cornellà?
For Messi, this isn’t about immediate glory in La Liga; it’s about the “long game.” He recently admitted in an interview that he wanted to “start from the bottom and make a club grow.” By taking over a club with a top-tier youth structure, he’s positioning himself to be one of the most influential scouts and owners in the game.
What This Means for Inter Miami:
Don’t worry, Miami fans—Leo isn’t going anywhere just yet. He’s still under contract through 2028 and is currently tearing up the MLS (Inter Miami sits 3rd in the East). Ownership is simply the next chapter for a man who has already won everything there is to win on the grass.
