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By [xscore| April 17, 2026
In a heartwarming move that reinforces his unbreakable bond with Spanish football, Lionel Messi has officially acquired 100% ownership of UE Cornellà, a modest club based in the Baix Llobregat area just outside Barcelona.
The club made the exciting announcement on Thursday, April 16, 2026, confirming that the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner and Argentina superstar has taken full control of the fifth-tier side (Tercera RFEF / Tercera Federación).
A Homecoming Rooted in Passion for Local Talent
UE Cornellà, founded in 1951, is a community-focused club known for its strong youth academy rather than big-budget success.
The club has proudly produced several top talents, including:
Jordi Alba (former Barcelona and Spain star)
David Raya (Arsenal goalkeeper)
Other notable graduates like Gerard Martin and Javi Puado
In their official statement, Cornellà highlighted Messi’s deep connection to the region: “With this operation, Messi reinforces his close relationship with Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia.”
The club added that “Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter,” with a long-term vision focused on ambition, sustainability, and strengthening local roots.
Messi’s Growing Football Portfolio
This is not Messi’s first venture into club ownership. The Inter Miami forward (where he continues to dazzle in MLS) already holds stakes in:
FC Andorra
Deportivo LSM
By adding UE Cornellà, Messi joins the likes of David Beckham (Inter Miami) and Cristiano Ronaldo (who recently joined the ownership group at Almería) in expanding his influence beyond the pitch.
At 38, Messi remains one of the world’s most iconic players, but this move signals smart planning for life after football — investing in grassroots development close to where his legendary career began at La Masia.
