Lionel Messi has completed his acquisition of Spanish second-tier club CD Eldense, marking another major step in the football icon’s growing involvement in club ownership.
The takeover is still subject to the necessary regulatory approvals. Eldense becomes the second Spanish club in which Messi has invested, following his purchase of Catalan side Cornellà earlier this year.
CD Eldense confirmed the change in ownership, describing Messi’s arrival as the beginning of a new chapter for a club with more than a century of history.
The Alicante-based team currently competes in Spain’s second division. Eldense have made a difficult start to the campaign, collecting one victory and five points from their opening seven matches and sitting 19th in the 22-team standings.
Messi Expands His Football Investments
The 39-year-old Argentina legend had reached a preliminary agreement in September to become the majority shareholder of Eldense. That process has now been completed, subject to regulatory requirements.
The club says Messi’s ownership is intended to support its long-term sporting, institutional and community development.
The move adds another dimension to Messi’s post-playing career. The eight-time Ballon d’Or winner remains an active player with Major League Soccer side Inter Miami after joining the American club in 2023.
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From Barcelona Star to Club Owner
Messi moved from Argentina to Spain at the age of 13 before progressing through Barcelona’s famous academy.
He made his senior debut for the Catalan club at just 17 in October 2004 and went on to establish himself as one of football’s greatest players.
During his Barcelona career, Messi scored 672 goals in 778 appearances before leaving the club in 2021 for Paris Saint-Germain. He later moved to Inter Miami in 2023, where he continued his playing career in MLS.
At international level, Messi reached the pinnacle of the game when he guided Argentina to World Cup glory in 2022. He later announced his retirement from international football in August.
Eldense Begin a New Era Under Messi
Messi’s arrival represents a significant change for Eldense, who have more than 100 years of history but are currently battling near the bottom of the Spanish second division.
The club expects the new ownership structure to provide a foundation for long-term development both on and off the pitch.
While Messi’s playing career remains active, his growing involvement in football ownership signals a broader role in the sport beyond his achievements as a player.
Ronaldo Also Invested in Spanish Football
Messi is not the only global football superstar to have invested in a Spanish club.
His long-time rival Cristiano Ronaldo, who currently plays for Saudi Pro League club Al-Nassr, acquired a 25% stake in Spanish side Almeria earlier this year.
With Messi now involved at Eldense, two of football’s most celebrated players have established ownership interests in Spanish football, adding another intriguing chapter to their careers after years of rivalry on the pitch.