Lionel Messi has acquired UE Cornellà, according to an announcement. The Argentine player now owns the Catalan club, which competes in the Grupo V of Tercera RFEF and has promotion aspirations.
The announcement stated: “With this operation, Messi reinforces his close relationship with Barcelona and his commitment to the development of sport and local talent in Catalunya. A connection that goes back to his time as an FC Barcelona player and has remained indelible over the years.”
Messi’s Plans for Cornellà
UE Cornellà, founded in 1951, currently sits third in its group in Tercera, five points behind the leader, Manresa. The team has secured a promotion playoff spot and hopes to move up a division.
Messi’s objective is to guide the club to professional status through a substantial and carefully considered investment strategy, always prioritising the academy. The purchase announcement outlined the main principles: “The arrival of Leo Messi opens a new chapter in the club’s history, with the aim of boosting its sporting and institutional growth, reinforcing its structure and continuing to back talent. The project envisages a long-term vision, with a strategic plan that combines ambition, sustainability and roots.”
Cornellà’s Youth Academy Tradition
Cornellà’s appeal to Messi also lies in its tradition of developing young players. “Throughout its history, the club has stood out for its solid youth system and its ability to compete at the highest level within Spanish semi-professional football, establishing itself as a benchmark in the training of young footballers, the announcement stated.
“Players who have subsequently reached the elite of national and international football have passed through its ranks, such as the Spanish National Team and Arsenal goalkeeper, David Raya; Jordi Alba, the Argentinian’s former team-mate at both Barça and Inter Miami; Gerard Martín, a recent name at FC Barcelona; Javi Puado, captain of RCD Espanyol and also an international with Spain; Keita Baldé, an international with Senegal; Aitor Rubial, one of the current captains of Real Betis Balompié, or Ilie Sánchez, MLS champion”.
Messi’s Commitment to Youth Football
Messi’s connection to youth football and young talent is not new. His commitment is reflected in projects such as the Messi Cup, a tournament that held its first edition in Miami in December. Eight of the world’s best Under-16 teams participated, including Newell’s Old Boys, Inter Milan, River Plate, Inter Miami, Atlético de Madrid, Chelsea FC, Manchester City and FC Barcelona.
Messi is now part of a trend of footballers investing in club ownership.