Lionel Messi has become the sole owner of Spanish third-tier club UE Cornella, acquiring 100 per cent of the team based in the south-west of Barcelona. The Catalan club confirmed the acquisition in a statement, announcing that the Argentinian footballer and eight-time Ballon d'Or winner has formalised the purchase, becoming the new owner of the Baix Llobregat institution.
The club said the 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. Founded in 1951, Cornella has a rich history, competing in regional and lower leagues before achieving promotion to the Segunda Division B in the 2013-2014 season.
Cornella famously caused a major upset in the 2021 Copa del Rey, beating Atletico Madrid, before being narrowly eliminated by Barcelona in the subsequent round after extra time. The club has also been a breeding ground for talent, producing players such as Jordi Alba, Gerard Martin, and Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya.
The club highlighted Messi's dedication to nurturing young talent, noting that his commitment is reflected in the club's strong youth structure, with teams competing in top youth categories at national and regional levels. This commitment extends to initiatives like the Messi Cup, a tournament launched last December in Miami featuring top U16 teams globally.
Messi, now 38 and playing for Inter Miami in the MLS, remains Barcelona's record goalscorer, having netted 672 goals in 778 appearances, securing 10 LaLiga titles and four Champions League trophies during his time at the Camp Nou.
