Football icon Leo Messi has taken a significant step into club ownership by purchasing 100% of Spanish fifth-division side UE Cornellà. The club, located in Cornellà de Llobregat, a suburb of Barcelona, has a history dating back to 1951 but has never advanced beyond the third tier of Spanish football. Currently competing in the Tercera Federación, Messi’s acquisition marks him as the sole proprietor of the team.
This move underscores Messi’s deep connection to Barcelona and his commitment to fostering local sports and talent within Catalonia. UE Cornellà highlighted its successful youth academy, which has produced notable players like Jordi Alba (former Barcelona teammate and current Inter Miami player), David Raya (Arsenal and Spain goalkeeper), Gerard Martín (Barça defender), Javi Puado (RCD Espanyol captain), and Ilie Sánchez (MLS champion with LAFC in 2022).
“The arrival of Leo Messi opens a new chapter in the club’s history, with the objective of stimulating its sporting and institutional growth, strengthening its structure, and continuing to invest in talent,” stated the club.
This investment follows a growing trend among high-profile footballers to acquire stakes in smaller football clubs. Notably, Cristiano Ronaldo recently purchased a 25% share in Almería, a club currently competing in Spain’s second division.