Lionel Messi appears to be preparing for life beyond football as he approaches the final stage of his career.
At 38, his presence at the next World Cup remains uncertain. The Argentine has not confirmed whether he will feature at the tournament, adding to the sense that his focus is gradually shifting away from playing.
That transition has become clearer now, with a significant move off the pitch, signalling plans that extend into his post-playing future.
Lionel Messi confirmed as new owner of UE Cornella
Messi has been announced as the new owner of UE Cornella, with the club confirming the acquisition in an official statement released this Thursday.
Cornella are based in Catalunya, the region where Messi spent the majority of his career, strengthening the connection behind the move.
Part of the statement reads: “UE Cornella announces that Argentinian footballer and eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Leo Messi has formalized the acquisition of the club, becoming the new owner of the Baix Llobregat institution.
“This move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia – a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since.”
The club currently competes in the Tercera Federacion, Spain’s fifth division, and has previously developed players such as David Raya, Arsenal goalkeeper, and Jordi Alba, former Barcelona left-back.
Cornella become Lionel Messi’s second club ownership venture
UE Cornella are not Messi’s first step into club ownership.
He is also a partner with Luis Suarez at Deportivo LSM, a Uruguayan side competing in the fourth division.
The club were founded in 2021, with Messi joining the ownership group in May 2025.
That involvement highlights a growing interest in long-term projects beyond his playing career.
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