Lionel Messi takes full ownership of a Spanish club

Argentine star Lionel Messi has become the new owner of Cornella (UE Cornella), following the completion of a 100% takeover of the Catalan football club.

According to the newspaper, the deal was finalised on Thursday 16 April 2026, meaning the club, which competes in the Spanish third division (Tercera Federación – Catalan Group), is now wholly owned by Messi.

Lionel Messi buys UE Cornella

Cornella is a club based in the Catalonia region. Founded in 1951, it is known for its role in developing young talent and training players in the youth ranks, as well as serving as a stepping stone for a number of players who went on to play at higher levels in Spanish football.

The newspaper reported that this move is part of a new sporting project led by Messi, aimed at developing the club’s technical infrastructure and relying on the academy to produce players, whilst working to gradually raise the team’s level in domestic Spanish competitions.

AS also noted that Cornella is one of the clubs that has focused on youth development in recent years, having produced or seen pass through its ranks a number of players, including goalkeeper David Raya, defender Jordi Alba, midfielder Javi Boado and Keita Balde.

The report suggests that Messi’s acquisition of the club reflects a growing trend among former football stars to enter the field of sports investment and club ownership, through long-term projects centred on sporting and academic development.

No further details have yet been released by the club or Lionel Messi’s representatives regarding the financial or administrative aspects of the deal, whilst initial coverage has simply described the transaction as a full takeover of the club.

Lionel Messi thus enters the world of club ownership through the Catalan club Cornella, marking a new chapter in his career off the pitch.

Featured image via the Canary

By Alaa Shamali

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