Daijiworld Media Network - Barcelona

Barcelona, Apr 17: Argentine football legend Lionel Messi has stepped into club ownership, acquiring Spanish fifth-tier side UE Cornella, the Catalonia-based club confirmed on Thursday.

The development marks a significant move off the pitch for the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who is currently playing for Inter Miami and is expected to lead Argentina in their World Cup title defence later this year.

Cornella, based in the suburbs of Barcelona, announced the takeover in an official statement, underlining Messi’s long-standing connection with the region.

“This move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia,” the club said.

The club, known for producing players like David Raya and Jordi Alba, has struggled in recent seasons, facing back-to-back relegations. Messi’s entry is seen as a major boost aimed at rebuilding the club’s sporting and institutional structure.

“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 statement added.

Messi’s association with Catalonia runs deep, having spent 17 seasons with FC Barcelona’s senior team, where he became the club’s all-time top scorer with 672 goals. The 38-year-old has previously expressed his desire to return to the region after retirement, and this move reflects that vision.

Interestingly, the development comes amid a broader trend, with his long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo also recently purchasing a stake in Spanish club UD Almeria, signalling growing involvement of top players in club ownership.