Messi becomes new owner of Spanish fifth-tier club Cornella

Madrid: Lionel Messi has acquired Catalan club Cornella, with the Spanish fifth-tier side announcing on Thursday that the Argentina captain is now the team’s new owner.

The club confirmed the development in a statement and said the move reflected Messi’s longstanding connection with Barcelona as well as his interest in supporting sport and emerging players in Catalonia.

“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 in a statement confirming the former Barcelona star’s acquisition.

Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, is currently playing in the United States for Inter Miami. He is also expected to have an important role in Argentina’s attempt to defend the World Cup title later this year.

Cornella said Messi’s arrival signals the start of a new phase for the club after a difficult period on the field. The team has been relegated in each of the last two seasons, dropping into the fifth tier of Spanish football.

“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,” Cornella added.

The club also said the project would be shaped by a long-term approach focused on ambition, sustainability and maintaining strong links with the local community.

“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.”

Cornella has produced a number of players who later moved on to higher levels of the game. Among those to come through the club are Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya and Jordi Alba, who was Messi’s teammate at Barcelona.

The announcement places Messi in a new role away from the pitch while he continues his playing career in Major League Soccer. The club’s statement presented the takeover as both a sporting and institutional step, with an emphasis on strengthening the side’s base and continuing investment in player development.

Messi spent much of his professional career at Barcelona and remains closely associated with the city and the region of Catalonia. Cornella’s statement linked the acquisition directly to those ties, while also framing it as part of a broader plan for the club’s future.

For Cornella, the change in ownership comes at a time when the club is seeking to rebuild after consecutive relegations. The club said Messi’s involvement would support growth on and off the field as it looks to move forward under its new ownership.