Lionel Messi once again shook the football world last Thursday. This time, however, it was not his goals that made headlines. The Argentine star announced the purchase of UE Cornellà, a club competing in Spain’s Tercera RFEF and currently fighting to reach the promotion play-offs.
The news spread rapidly and caused huge surprise and anticipation. In just 24 hours, the club quintupled its social media following, rising from 40,000 to 200,000 followers. It also received requests from more than a hundred international journalists. This is another example of Messi’s global impact, now focused on Cornellà.
Control from now on
The big question is what will happen next. The Argentine intends to gradually take control of the club from now on, without making abrupt changes. Maintaining current staff is one of his priorities. However, over time, he will bring in trusted people for key roles, while also pushing for greater professionalism across all areas of the club.
Commitment to grassroots football
One of the pillars of his project will be grassroots football. Messi is aware that this is one of Cornellà’s biggest strengths, a youth academy that has produced several elite players, such as Gerard Martín, now a central defender at Barcelona.
His commitment is clear: to strengthen youth development, an area he is passionate about and has already supported through initiatives such as the Messi Cup, held last December.
Ambition
Youth development will also have an impact on the first team, although without major short-term pressure. The philosophy is that growth should happen naturally: strengthen the foundation and allow the first team to progress according to its performance.
Messi will, however, provide the financial resources needed to sustain the project. His ambition—one of his defining traits as a player—will also shape this new chapter as an owner.
Contract in Miami
His involvement will be gradual. Currently tied to Inter Miami with two and a half years remaining on his contract, and with an eye on the next World Cup, the Argentine will not be able to take part in the day-to-day management of the club.
Even so, he will closely monitor everything from the United States and will make every effort to be present at Cornellà whenever possible.
Euphoria
In the dressing room, the news was received with enthusiasm. Players and coaching staff learned of it on Thursday and quickly shared their surprise.
“Now everyone is going to be watching us,” they said.
It is a morale boost that could translate onto the pitch at a crucial stage of the season, with the promotion play-offs approaching.