Lionel Messi has broadened his influence beyond the football field by taking over Spanish fifth-tier club UE Cornellà, the club announced on Thursday.
The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner, who now plays for Inter Miami, will handle ownership duties while continuing to play at the highest level. This decision shows Messi’s strong ties to Catalonia, where he was the star of FC Barcelona for most of his career.
Cornellà, in its statement, called this a new chapter focusing on growth, long-term sustainability, and the development of local talents. The team is known for its robust player training system and is the home of stars like David Raya and Jordi Alba.
Messi’s coming is great news for the club at a time when it is facing back-to-back relegations for two seasons. But with his presence, it seems the club will get a fresh spirit and will stabilize both on and off the field.
The 38-year-old star is also getting ready for Argentina’s World Cup defense this year, a tournament he is likely to go to for the sixth time.
Messi’s acquisition is parallel to the rising trend of football stars investing in clubs, as Cristiano Ronaldo, who has recently bought a stake in UD Almería, is a case in point.
