Argentine football icon Lionel Messi has officially acquired Club Deportivo Eldense, a Spanish second-division club. Eldense, based just inland from Alicante, announced the acquisition in an online statement. This marks Messi's second venture into Spanish football ownership, following his purchase of Cornella, near Barcelona, in April. Messi's acquisition of Eldense was made official on Thursday, with the club expressing its ambition to consolidate its position and grow in professional football.

Founded in 1921, CD Eldense is looking to make the most of this new chapter in its history. The club's statement expressed its excitement about the acquisition, highlighting its desire to grow and develop in the world of professional football. Messi, 39, has been playing for Inter Miami since 2023 and has been involved in various business ventures outside of football. His acquisition of Eldense is seen as a strategic move to expand his influence in the sport.

Messi's contract with Inter Miami includes a provision for him to become a shareholder in the MLS club after he retires from the game. The eight-time Ballon d'Or winner announced his retirement from international football in late August, following Argentina's loss to Spain in the 2026 World Cup final. Messi's focus is now on his club career and his various business ventures, including his ownership of Eldense.

Eldense currently plays in the Spanish second division, and Messi's acquisition is expected to bring new investment and expertise to the club. The club's fans are excited about the prospect of Messi's involvement, and there is a sense of optimism about the team's future prospects. Messi's experience and success in football are expected to have a positive impact on the club.

Messi's acquisition of Eldense is part of a broader trend of football stars investing in clubs. Many former players have gone on to become successful club owners, using their experience and expertise to build successful teams. Messi's investment in Eldense is seen as a positive development for Spanish football, and fans will be watching with interest to see how the club performs in the coming seasons.

The financial terms of the acquisition were not disclosed, but it is understood that Messi has a significant stake in the club. Eldense's management team will continue to run the club's day-to-day operations, with Messi providing strategic guidance and support. The club's fans are eager to see the impact of Messi's ownership on the team's performance and prospects.

Messi's acquisition of Eldense has generated significant interest in Spanish football, with many fans and pundits discussing the implications of the deal. The move is seen as a positive development for Spanish football, and fans will be watching with interest to see how Eldense performs in the coming seasons.

Key points

  • Lionel Messi has acquired a second Spanish lower league club, Eldense, marking his second venture into Spanish football ownership.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.