Lionel Messi Just Quietly Purchased a Soccer Team

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Lionel Messi Just Quietly Purchased a Soccer Team

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Pragjyoti Singh | Last updated Apr 16, 2026 12:33 PM ET

Inter Miami star Lionel Messi has acquired UE Cornellà, a Spanish club currently competing in the lower divisions. The club confirmed the news in an official statement on Thursday.

“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 organization wrote.

UE Cornellà is well-known for its successful academy, having produced players such as Arsenal’s David Raya, Barcelona’s Gerard Martín, and former Manchester United goalkeeper André Onana.

Other notable alumni include Javi Puado of Espanyol, MLS Cup winner Ilie Sánchez, and Messi’s longtime teammate Jordi Alba.

Lionel Messi of Inter Miami CF reacts prior to the CONCACAF Champions Cup 2026 match against Nashville SC.Photo by Johnnie Izquierdo/Getty Images

The club's announcement further detailed his vision:

“Messi’s commitment to young talent is also reflected in the club’s strong youth structure, with teams competing in the top youth categories at both national and regional levels. This commitment has also been demonstrated by the Argentina captain through other youth development initiatives, such as the Messi Cup — a tournament that held its first edition last December in Miami, featuring eight of the world’s top U16 teams (Newell’s Old Boys, Inter Milan, River Plate, Inter Miami, Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea FC, Manchester City, and FC Barcelona).”

The news of the century! Leo Messi, new owner of #UECornellà

All the info: https://t.co/eWz8kYYLIs pic.twitter.com/kxJ8AYGcuy
— UE Cornellà (@ue_cornella) April 16, 2026

MORE: Is Lionel Messi Playing in the 2026 World Cup?

This acquisition highlights Messi’s dedication to football development and strengthens his lifelong bond with Catalonia.

By investing in youth systems and local infrastructure, the eight-time Ballon d'Or winner is taking an active role in shaping the next generation of the sport.

Messi’s Vision for UE Cornellà’s Future

With Messi’s arrival the club now aims to build on its legacy and elevate its professional standing:

“Leo Messi’s arrival marks the beginning of a new chapter in the club’s history, aimed at driving both sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its foundations, and continuing to invest in talent. The project is guided by a long-term vision and a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to its local roots.”

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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