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Lionel Messi has completed the takeover of Spanish lower-league side UE Cornella, the club have confirmed.
The 38-year-old, currently playing for Inter Miami CF, adds club ownership to a glittering career that includes four UEFA Champions League titles and 10 La Liga triumphs with FC Barcelona.
Cornella, who compete in Spain’s fifth tier, confirmed the move in a statement, saying: "eight-time Ballon d'Or winner Leo Messi has formalised the acquisition of the club."
They added: "This move reinforces Messi's close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia."
Messi moved to Spain from Argentina as a teenager, making his Barcelona debut at 17 in October 2004 before going on to score a club-record 672 goals in 778 appearances.
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He later joined Paris Saint-Germain in 2021, before moving to Inter Miami in 2023.
Cornella's modest 1,500-capacity stadium reflects their current standing in the Spanish football pyramid, though the club has produced notable talents including David Raya and Jordi Alba.
"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," they said in a club statement.
"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."
Messi's involvement is expected to bring increased visibility and investment to the Catalan club as they look to climb the Spanish football pyramid.
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