Messi buys Spanish 3rd division club UE Cornellà

Dubai: Lionel Messi has purchased his own football club as he begins planning for life after his playing career.

The eight-time Ballon D’Or winner has invested in Spanish third division side UE Cornellà.

Messi is set to take complete control of the club after reportedly acquiring a 100 per cent stake.

BREAKING: Lionel Messi buys Spanish 3rd division club UE Cornellà. ✍

Catalunya based club will be owned by Leo Messi for its 100%. pic.twitter.com/urf1oCXgZe

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 16, 2026

UE Cornellà is a Catalan football club based in Cornellà de Llobregat, just outside FC Barcelona’s home city where Messi played most of his career.

Founded in 1951, they’ve spent most of their history in Spain’s lower divisions and currently operate in the semi-professional tiers of Spanish football.

The club announced Messi’s purchase in an official statement.

It read: “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.

“This 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.

“Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent.

“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.”

Messi’s step into club ownership mirrors the path taken by his current boss, former Manchester United and Real Madrid star David Beckham.

The news also follows long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo’s own move into club ownership, having acquired a 25% stake in Spanish second-division side UD Almería rather than taking full control.