Lionel Messi has emulated David Beckham by investing in his own soccer team. The renowned Argentine, often hailed as the greatest footballer of all time, is currently excelling with Inter Miami in what could be considered the latter stages of his playing career.
Beckham initiated the establishment of the club in 2014, finalizing its formation in 2018. Over the years, Inter Miami has achieved notable success in the MLS, securing the Leagues Cup in 2023 and clinching their conference title the subsequent year.
Moreover, the club has attracted top-tier talents since its inception, including Messi, Sergio Busquets, Luis Suarez, and Jordi Alba. Now, Messi is expanding his horizons by acquiring UE Cornella, a team in the Spanish third division, signaling a new phase in his illustrious career.
Situated in Catalonia, akin to his beloved Barcelona where he spent 17 productive years, Messi has procured a complete ownership stake in Cornella. A formal announcement regarding the acquisition stated that Messi, an eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, has taken control of the Baix Llobregat institution, reinforcing his connection to Barcelona and his dedication to nurturing local talent in Catalonia.
UE Cornella, founded in 1951, boasts a rich heritage in Catalan football and nationally, known for its robust youth system and competitive spirit in Spanish semi-professional football, serving as a breeding ground for numerous accomplished players who have excelled both domestically and internationally.
Messi’s involvement signifies a fresh era for the club, focusing on enhancing both sporting and institutional growth, fortifying its core principles, and continuing to invest in emerging talent. The initiative is guided by a forward-looking strategy emphasizing ambition, sustainability, and strong ties to the local community.
Having commenced his career with Newell’s Old Boys, Messi transitioned to Barcelona’s first team in 2004, where he amassed a remarkable record of 672 goals and 303 assists in 778 appearances, establishing himself as the club’s leading goal scorer of all time.
Accumulating an impressive array of accolades, including seven Ballon d’Or awards, 10 La Liga titles, 14 domestic cups, and four Champions League triumphs during his tenure at Barcelona, Messi moved to Paris Saint-Germain in 2021 before joining Inter Miami in 2023, where he continues to excel.
With his contract extending until 2028, Messi showcases no signs of slowing down. However, his participation in international competitions, notably the upcoming World Cup, remains uncertain, where he aims to help Argentina defend the title they secured four years ago in North America.
