Superstar footballer Lionel Messi has officially stepped into football ownership after acquiring Spanish side UE Cornella, taking full control of the club based on the outskirts of Barcelona.
The Inter Miami forward, 38, now owns 100 per cent of the fifth-tier Spanish club, marking his first major investment in football club ownership.
UE Cornella, located just five miles from Camp Nou, confirmed the development in a statement, describing Messi’s arrival as the beginning of a new era for the club.
According to the club, the takeover is aimed at strengthening both sporting and institutional development, with a long-term strategy focused on sustainability, ambition, and nurturing young talent.
“UE Cornella said 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 statement read.
The club also noted that its future direction will combine strategic planning with a strong connection to its local roots.
Founded in 1951, UE Cornella currently plays in the Tercera Federación Group 5 and is pushing for promotion to the fourth tier of Spanish football. The club sits third in the league table, behind Manresa and Badalona.
UE Cornella has a strong track record of developing talent, with players such as Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and former Barcelona defender Jordi Alba having come through its ranks.
While financial details of the deal were not disclosed, Messi’s acquisition marks a significant milestone in his career as he expands his influence beyond the pitch into football ownership.