Calling all fans of the G.O.A.T himself, AKA Lionel Messi! Messi has officially added football (or soccer as we call it) club owner to his already impressive résumé. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner has completed the acquisition of Spanish club UE Cornelia, taking full ownership of the Catalan side as he continues to make his impact on the most beautiful game. While Lionel Messi is still giving his all to Inter Miami in Major League Soccer, this new venture proves his long-term commitment to developing the next generation of talent in the place where his legendary career started, Barcelona. Keep reading for everything you need to know about Messi’s purchase of a lower division soccer club!
UE Cornelia has confirmed the acquisition of the club in an official statement, describing Messi’s arrival as “the beginning of a new chapter” built around ambition, sustainability, and a strong connection to the club’s roots. Lionel Messi has purchased a 100% stake in the club, making him its sole owner. While all the financial details haven’t been released, this move is expected to focus on strengthening the club, investing in its academy, and starting the journey back to the top of Spanish football. Although UE Cornelia is currently competing in Spain’s fifth tier after consecutive relegations, the club is still considered one of the countries most respected youth programs.
Founded in 1951, UE Cornelia has spent decades building a name for themselves that is so much greater than their position in the league! Based in the working-class city of Cornella de Llobregat, just outside Barcelona, the club has produced some of the most successful young soccer players. For years, Cornelia has been regarded as one of the region’s top places for finding talented athletes, often mentioned alongside FC Barcelona and Espanyol as one of Catalonia’s premier youth development clubs. The academy has also helped several players who have gone on to have successful careers in soccer, including David Raya, Jordi Alba, Gerard Martin, Javi Puado, and many more! The club has also experienced one of the biggest moments in history at the 2020-21 Copa Del Rey when it pushed Barcelona to extra time before eventually losing 2-0.
For Lionel Messi, this investment is so much more than simply owning a soccer club! Throughout his career, he’s spoken about the importance of youth development, the UE Cornelia’s youth academy is perfect for his vision. Instead of focusing on immediate success, his project aims to strengthen the club at its foundation while also continuing to develop talented young players so that they can one day perform at the highest level of soccer. The acquisition also builds on other goals Messi has already begun working towards. In 2025, he introduced the inaugural Messi Cup in Miami, bringing together eight of the world’s top under-16 clubs, including FC Barcelona, Manchester City, Chelsea, Inter Milan, and more. As the sole owner of UE Cornelia, Lionel Messi has another opportunity to invest in player development and create new opportunities for young players!
Whether this leads to UE Cornelia making their mark in the Spanish football leagues or simply strengthens one of Spain’s most respected youth academies, Lionel Messi’s influence on soccer is truly legendary!
Check out our collection of Lionel Messi themed memorabilia and more! From jerseys to hats, and SoccerStarz to Minix figurines, you’ll find officially licensed merch to show your support for one of the world’s greatest players at SoccerCards.ca!
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