Lionel Messi Acquires UE Cornellà in Strategic Return to Catalonia

Lionel Messi has officially completed a 100% acquisition of UE Cornellà, the Catalonia-based club announced on Thursday, 16 April 2026. The move marks the Inter Miami captain’s first major foray into club ownership in Spain, deepening his lifelong connection to the region where he spent 21 years with FC Barcelona.

The deal, facilitated through a strategic investment plan, focuses on the club’s prestigious youth academy, which has historically produced elite talent such as Jordi Alba, David Raya, and André Onana. By taking full control of the Baix Llobregat institution, Messi aims to preserve and expand its reputation as a premier talent factory.

In an official statement of UE Cornellà, they said: “This move reinforces Messi’s close ties to Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalonia, a connection rooted in his years at FC Barcelona and sustained ever since.” 

“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.

Strategic Growth and Local Roots

While UE Cornellà has struggled at the senior level in recent years, dropping to the Tercera RFEF (Spanish fifth division) following consecutive relegations, the acquisition is built on a long-term vision of sustainability and technical infrastructure development.

• Youth Development: The “Messi project” will prioritise the academy, leveraging his global network to create a pipeline for emerging players.
• Institutional Stability: The takeover provides the club with significant financial backing to professionalise its operations and rise back through the Spanish domestic tiers.
• Cultural Legacy: The investment is viewed as a “homecoming” for Messi, securing a permanent professional link to the community that shaped his career.

Messi’s entry into ownership mirrors the path of his Inter Miami co-owner David Beckham and follows the recent move by Cristiano Ronaldo, who acquired a 25% stake in UD Almería. Unlike minority investments common among active stars, Messi’s 100% stake gives him total control over the club’s future direction.

Don’t miss out on the latest in sports business – Subscribe today to the free Ministry of Sport newsletter and stay ahead of the game. For even more exclusive insights, event tickets, professional development and networking events, become a MoS Member today!.