Owner, Businessman and Player: Messi Has Big Plans as a Golden Era Ends

Lionel Messi is preparing to close one of the most remarkable chapters in football history. The Argentina captain is set to play his final match for the national team in a friendly against Benin, bringing an end to an international career that delivered a World Cup, multiple Copa América titles and countless unforgettable moments. Yet while that golden era draws to a close, Messi is already building the next phase of his life as an owner, businessman and still-active player.

At 39, the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner continues to perform at a high level for Inter Miami. His club contract runs until the end of the 2028 season, subject to annual review. Few close to him expect an early exit. At the same time, Messi has begun laying concrete foundations for life after the final whistle.

Building a Football Portfolio in Spain

Messi’s most significant recent moves have come in Spain. In April 2026 he acquired UE Cornellà, a fifth-tier club on the edge of Barcelona known for its strong youth development system. The purchase placed him at the heart of a talent nursery in the region where he first rose to global stardom.

Then, on 1 October 2026, CD Eldense announced Messi as its new owner, subject to formal authorisation from the Spanish sports council. The Alicante-based side competes in the Segunda División. The immediate priority is avoiding relegation, which is why former Villarreal coach Javi Calleja was appointed shortly after the ownership change. Messi’s longer-term ambition is clearer: to see Eldense establish itself in La Liga and become the centrepiece of his football operations.

He has made it plain that he does not intend to be a distant investor. Messi wants to remain involved in day-to-day decisions, working through trusted associates until he can dedicate more time himself. After Eldense’s recent 4-1 win over Real Oviedo, his first public message as owner was a simple Instagram post reading “Aupa Deportivo.”

Ownership Ambitions Beyond Coaching

Messi has repeatedly stated that he does not see himself as a coach. Management roles hold some appeal, yet ownership ranks highest. He has spoken of wanting to build a club from the ground up, giving young players genuine opportunities to develop and creating something lasting. The combination of Cornellà’s academy focus and Eldense’s professional platform reflects that vision.

His Inter Miami agreement already includes a future shareholding once his playing days end. MLS rules prevent active players from holding ownership stakes, but the club has confirmed its intention to integrate Messi into the shareholder structure after retirement. A separate franchise of his own is not part of current plans. Instead, the emphasis remains on the Spanish projects and a continued connection to Miami.

Expanding Business Interests

Away from the pitch, Messi’s commercial portfolio continues to grow. Forbes estimated his net worth at approximately $1.1 billion in June 2026, with earnings of around $140 million over the previous year split between football and business. The most visible elements include the MiM Hotels chain, a collection of boutique properties now operated under a rental agreement with Melia, and his long-standing lifetime partnership with Adidas. Additional investments in restaurants, real estate and other ventures have further diversified his interests.

Messi has described a growing curiosity about the business world. He acknowledges that football has an expiration date and says he is steadily becoming more involved in the decisions that will shape the years ahead. Learning remains a priority as he transitions from full-time athlete to multi-faceted entrepreneur.

A Seamless Transition

The timing is deliberate. By securing ownership of two Spanish clubs while still under contract in Miami, Messi ensures continuity. He can follow Eldense matches remotely, support youth development at Cornellà, and maintain the physical and competitive edge required at Inter Miami. When the day comes to step away from playing, the infrastructure will already be in place.

For online readers who have followed Messi’s career from Barcelona through Paris and now Miami, the shift feels natural. The same meticulous attention that defined his performances is being applied to long-term projects. The golden era with Argentina may be ending, yet the story of Messi as owner, businessman and player is only beginning. His focus remains on growth, opportunity and building something that outlasts any single season.

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