Lionel Messi is the new owner of UE Cornellà. The Catalan club announced this Thursday that the Argentine legend has acquired 100% of the team’s shares. This strategic move marks another significant step in Messi’s career off the pitch, further cementing his legacy in the world of sports management.
The team currently competes in the Spanish third division (Primera Federación). In an official statement, the club highlighted the importance of the deal: “With this transaction, Messi reinforces his close relationship with Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sports and local talent in Catalonia.”
A Tradition of Talent
Founded in 1951, UE Cornellà is currently a standout performer in Group V of the Spanish third tier. The team is already on track to secure a spot in the promotion playoffs for the 2026/27 second division season.
The club is renowned for its elite youth academy. It has developed several top-tier players, such as Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya, Barcelona’s Gerard Martín, and Messi’s current Inter Miami teammate, Jordi Alba.
Sustainable Growth
The official announcement emphasizes that the project led by Messi will focus on sustainable growth and strengthening the club’s sporting infrastructure. “The arrival of Leo Messi opens a new chapter in the club’s history,” the note added, aiming to expand talent development and institutional reach.
Messi joins a growing list of active and former players investing in club ownership:
- Cristiano Ronaldo: Stake in Almería.
- Kylian Mbappé: Investor in SM Caen.
- Thibaut Courtois: Linked to Le Mans.
- Casemiro: Stake in Marbella FC.
- David Beckham: Owner of Inter Miami.
For UE Cornellà, having the greatest player in history at the helm isn’t just a financial boost—it’s a total transformation of the club’s global profile.
