Lionel Messi has emulated David Beckham by acquiring his own soccer club. The renowned Argentine, hailed as one of the greatest players in history, is currently excelling in the latter stages of his career at Inter Miami.
Back in 2014, Beckham utilized an option to establish the club before officially launching it in 2018. Since then, Inter Miami has achieved notable success in the MLS, securing the Leagues Cup in 2023 and winning their conference the following year.
Moreover, the club has attracted top-tier talents, including Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba. Now, Messi is venturing into a new phase of his illustrious career by purchasing UE Cornella in the Spanish third division.
Situated in Catalonia, the same region as Barcelona where Messi spent 17 years, he has acquired a 100% stake in Cornella, making him the sole owner. An official statement confirmed Messi’s ownership, emphasizing his connection to Barcelona and dedication to fostering local talent in Catalonia.
UE Cornella, founded in 1951, has a rich tradition in Catalan football and a strong reputation for nurturing young players. Several football stars, such as David Raya, Jordi Alba, and Gerard Martin, have emerged from the club’s youth system, showcasing its commitment to talent development.
Messi’s involvement signifies a new era for the club, focusing on sports and institutional growth, sustainable development, and continued investment in emerging talent. With a long-term vision and strategic plan, the project aims to strengthen the club’s foundations and uphold its ties to the local community.
Having started his career at Newell’s Old Boys, Messi rose through Barcelona’s ranks, becoming the club’s all-time leading goal scorer with numerous accolades, including Ballon d’Or awards, La Liga titles, domestic cups, and Champions League triumphs. After a successful stint at Paris Saint-Germain, Messi joined Inter Miami in 2023.
With his contract running until 2028, Messi remains a dominant force in football. The possibility of his return to international competition to defend Argentina’s World Cup victory remains uncertain, as a new tournament approaches in North America.