Lionel Messi becomes owner of Spanish third-tier club UE Cornellà
Lionel Messi has officially become the new owner of Spanish third-division side UE Cornellà, the club confirmed in a statement on Thursday. The Argentine icon and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has acquired 100% of the shares of the Catalonia-based club, according to an announcement posted on the club's official channels. The move marks Messi's first major foray into club ownership.
UE Cornellà, founded in 1951, is based in the Baix Llobregat area near Barcelona and has a reputation for developing professional talent. Notable alumni who have come through the club's academy include former Barcelona and Spain defender Jordi Alba, Arsenal and Spain goalkeeper David Raya, and former Lazio forward Keita Baldé. Current Barcelona player Gerard Martín is also a product of the Cornellà youth system.
This acquisition places Messi in a similar role to his long-time on-pitch rival, Cristiano Ronaldo. The Portuguese star purchased a 25% stake in fellow Spanish third-division club UD Almería in February of 2026. With both clubs competing in the same league, the possibility of a new off-field rivalry between the two football legends has emerged, though their clubs have not yet faced each other this season.
For Messi, the investment represents a strategic foothold in European football administration and a tangible link to the Catalan region where he spent the majority of his legendary playing career. The move is seen as a long-term project rather than an immediate play for promotion, with the club currently positioned in the mid-table of the Primera Federación – Grupo I, Spain's third tier.
The transaction, facilitated by Messi's business representatives, underscores a growing trend of elite former players investing in clubs across Europe's lower leagues. For UE Cornellà, the immense global profile and financial backing of Messi is expected to provide significant stability and elevate the club's stature, potentially enhancing its ability to attract and develop young talent in a highly competitive region.
